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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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U.S. Envoy Excludes Europe from Ukraine Peace Talks

In a surprising move, the U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, announced that Europe will not be part of the upcoming peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This decision has sparked concerns among European leaders, who fear being sidelined in discussions that directly impact their security.

The announcement was made during the Munich Security Conference, where Kellogg emphasized that the U.S. would act as an intermediary, with Ukraine and Russia as the primary negotiators. He stated that while European interests would be considered, they would not have a seat at the negotiation table.

European leaders have expressed their dissatisfaction with this decision, urging for more involvement in the peace process. Finland's President Alexander Stubb highlighted the importance of European participation in discussions about Ukraine's future and the broader European security structure. Despite these concerns, the U.S. administration remains firm in its stance, prioritizing other global challenges such as border security and countering China.

The exclusion of Europe from the peace talks has raised questions about the future of transatlantic relations and the role of European nations in addressing regional conflicts. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the dynamics of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape.



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