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Bond Yields Are Nearing 5%: What It Means for Your Mortgage and HELOC

  Published September 11, 2026 Something is happening in the bond market this week that matters more to your wallet than the daily swings in the TSX. The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note closed in on 5% on Friday — 4.95% , its highest level since 2023 and approaching territory not seen since 2007 — after climbing 18 basis points in a single week. Canadian bond yields have followed the same path: the 10-year Government of Canada bond hit its highest level in over two years earlier this month, and the 5-year bond — the one that actually sets your fixed mortgage rate — has drifted up to roughly 3.41%, about a quarter-point higher than it was a month ago. If you're renewing a mortgage, shopping for a HELOC, or just trying to figure out whether now is the moment to lock in, here's what's actually going on and what it means for your payments. Why bond yields, not the Bank of Canada, are driving fixed rates right now It's a common mix-up: people watch the Bank of Canada...

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Putin Proposes Meeting with Trump to Discuss Ukraine War and Energy Prices

In a recent statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his desire to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss the ongoing Ukraine war and energy prices. Putin emphasized the importance of addressing these issues, which have been highlighted by Trump in the early days of his new administration.

Putin acknowledged that serious peace talks with Ukraine would be challenging unless the West pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to cancel a 2022 decree that bars negotiations with the Russian leader. He described Trump as smart and pragmatic, and expressed hope that a meeting could lead to constructive discussions on matters of mutual interest.

Trump, who was recently sworn in for a second, non-consecutive term, has also expressed his willingness to meet with Putin and seek an early end to the conflict. He has criticized the war as "ridiculous" and damaging to Russia's economy.

The proposed meeting marks a significant shift in the Kremlin's approach, as there has been little high-level contact with Western leaders due to the war in Ukraine. Both leaders have indicated their readiness to work together, with Putin noting his "pragmatic and trusting" relationship with Trump.

The potential summit could address various issues, including arms control and energy, given that both countries are major oil producers and consumers. Putin highlighted the need for stable oil prices, which are crucial for both economies.

As the world watches closely, the outcome of this proposed meeting could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and global energy markets.

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