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Why Interest Rates Matter for Canadians

Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...

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Liberal Leadership Race Heats Up as High-Profile Candidates Emerge

 

As the race to elect a new Liberal leader quickly approaches, the field of hopefuls is narrowing. Former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney is expected to launch his bid to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after signaling plans through his campaign team. Former B.C. premier Christy Clark is also debating whether to put her name forward, expressing her serious consideration despite disappointment with the short timeline for the race.

Several high-profile cabinet ministers have announced they will not run, including Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon and Transport and Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand, who each bowed out over the weekend. They join Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly, who have decided to focus on their portfolios instead.

Hopefuls have until January 23 to declare their candidacy, with the new leader set to be announced on March 9. So far, former Montreal MP Frank Baylis and Nepean, Ont., MP Chandra Arya are the only ones to publicly state their intention to run.

The race is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Liberal Party as it seeks new leadership and direction for the future.

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