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5 Things to Know Today: The Money News Shaping Your Week

5 Things to Know Today: The Money News Shaping Your Week 1. Canada’s Economy Grew Faster Than Expected Canada’s economy expanded at an annualized 2.6% in Q4, driven by stronger household spending, exports, and business investment. 2. Manitoba Fast‑Tracks Major Infrastructure Projects A new federal‑provincial agreement introduces a “one project, one review” system to accelerate ports, highways, and energy corridors. 3. Job Market Shows a Small but Positive Uptick Canada added 14,000 jobs in March, with wages rising 4.7% — a key factor ahead of the Bank of Canada’s April 29 rate decision. 4. Oil Markets Remain Volatile After Hormuz Reopening Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz, but analysts warn global oil markets may take time to stabilize. 5. Canadians Face Rising Affordability Pressures More Canadians are turning to budgeting tools as inflation, energy costs, and housing pressures persist.
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Inflation Climb Reinforces Fed’s Cautious Stance as Powell Returns to Capitol

 

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is back on Capitol Hill amid new data showing that inflation in the United States jumped to a 3% annual rate in January—slightly higher than December’s 2.9%. The uptick, driven by rising costs in housing, food, and energy, is prompting concerns that the progress on curbing inflation may be stalling.

In his second day of testimony before Congress, Powell reiterated that the Fed is in no rush to lower interest rates. He emphasized that while the overall economy remains robust, the unexpected surge in consumer prices underscores the need for a “wait-and-see” approach. Lawmakers grilled him on various issues ranging from tariff policies to the safety of bank deposits, but Powell maintained that the current monetary policy framework is appropriate given the mixed economic signals.

Market observers noted that the higher-than-expected inflation data might further delay any future rate cuts, as the Fed continues to weigh the risks of reducing policy restraint too quickly. With Powell’s testimony ongoing, all eyes remain on Capitol Hill as policymakers and investors seek clarity on the future direction of U.S. monetary policy.


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