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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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Hostage Deal Breakthrough Amidst Mourning in Israel

In a significant development, mediators have successfully brokered a breakthrough in the Gaza hostage deal, bringing hope amidst the ongoing conflict. The agreement comes as Israel mourns the tragic loss of the Bibas family, who were among the youngest hostages seized during the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas militants.

The deal, finalized in Cairo, involves the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the bodies of Israeli hostages. This breakthrough is expected to ease tensions and maintain the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The agreement was reached just as a funeral procession for Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, took place in Rishon LeZion, Israel.

The Bibas family, who were kidnapped from their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz, have become a symbol of the trauma suffered by Israel during the conflict. Thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects, carrying Israeli flags and orange balloons, a new symbol of mourning for the hostages.

The ceasefire deal, brokered by Egyptian and Qatari mediators, includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages and around 1,900 Palestinian prisoners in its first phase. The second phase is expected to involve the release of the remaining hostages and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

As the world watches, the hope is that this breakthrough will pave the way for lasting peace and the swift return of all remaining hostages.





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