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BoC Holds at 2.25%: What the Rate Decision (and Rising Gas Prices) Mean for Your Wallet

  Thursday, July 16, 2026 Sixth consecutive hold. A weaker 2026 growth forecast. And inflation that's running hotter because of gas prices, not the usual suspects. Here's what actually changes for you. The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 2.25% on Wednesday, exactly as markets expected. No surprise there. What's more interesting is why it held, and what it revealed about where the economy — and your bills — are headed next. This was the sixth straight hold since the Bank finished its easing cycle back in October. But buried in the accompanying Monetary Policy Report were a few numbers worth your attention. The Numbers That Matter Overnight Rate 2.25% (unchanged) Prime Rate (typical) 4.45% 2026 GDP Growth Forecast 0.7% (cut from 1.2%) 2027 / 2028 Growth Forecast 1.8% each year May CPI Inflation 3.2% Inflation Excluding Gasoline 2.2% Unemployment Rate (June) 6.5% Next Rate Decision September 2, 2026 Why Gas Prices Are Driving This Decision Here's the twist in th...

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Ontario Premier Doug Ford Calls Snap Election for February 27

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is set to call a snap election next week, sending voters to the polls on February 27. This unexpected move comes as Ford seeks a fresh mandate to address the looming threat of tariffs from the United States under President Donald Trump. The provincial election, originally scheduled for June 2026, has been advanced as Ford emphasizes the need for a "strong mandate" to protect Ontario's economy and jobs.

Ford's decision has sparked criticism from opposition leaders, who accuse him of prioritizing his political career over the province's stability. Ontario Liberal leader Bonnie Crombie expressed her disapproval, stating that Ford has chosen "recklessness over responsibility". Despite the controversy, recent polls indicate that Ford's Progressive Conservative Party holds a significant lead, with 46% of respondents supporting the Conservatives.

The upcoming election will be the first mid-winter election in Ontario since 1981. As the province braces for this unexpected political event, all eyes will be on Ford's announcement next week and the subsequent campaign trail.

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