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Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...
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Hudson’s Bay Liquidation Marks End of an Era, Thousands of Jobs at Stake

 

Hudson’s Bay, Canada’s oldest retail company, is set to liquidate the majority of its stores, leaving thousands of employees facing layoffs. The company, which has been a cornerstone of Canadian retail for over 350 years, recently filed for creditor protection due to financial challenges, including reduced consumer spending and post-pandemic downtown traffic.

Starting today, liquidation sales will begin at all but six Hudson’s Bay locations across the country. The six stores spared include flagship locations in Toronto and Montreal, among others. However, the company has warned that these stores could also face closure if a restructuring solution is not found quickly.

The liquidation process is expected to impact over 9,000 employees directly, with additional effects on contractors and brand shop-in-shop staff. Many employees, some with decades of service, are grappling with the emotional and financial toll of the closures.

The liquidation sales are set to run until June 15, with stores vacated by June 30. Gift cards will be accepted until April 6, but loyalty points can no longer be redeemed.

This development marks a significant shift in Canada’s retail landscape, as Hudson’s Bay has been a symbol of heritage and commerce for centuries. The company’s iconic striped products and historic point blankets have become collector’s items amid the closures.



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