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5 Things to Know Today: Canada’s CPI, Alberta’s Vote and Oil Near $100 (Oct. 18)

  Canadian Money Brief • Sunday, October 18, 2026 Markets are closed, but Monday is packed: Canada's September inflation reading, a high-stakes Alberta referendum and a Bank of Canada decision just ten days away. Here are the five things that matter for your wallet today. 1. Canada's September CPI lands Monday, 9 days before the BoC decision Statistics Canada releases September inflation Monday at 8:30 a.m. ET. A Reuters/LSEG poll of economists expects 3.2% (up from 3.0% in August); TD also sees 3.2%, while RBC expects 3.0% for a third straight month. Core inflation is expected to stay soft, around 1.8%-1.9%. The Bank of Canada also publishes its Business Outlook Survey Monday, and the policy rate (2.25%) is decided Oct. 28. What it means for you: A hot core number would raise odds of a hike, which hits variable-rate mortgages and HELOCs first. A soft core number with headline driven by gas supports the "hold" camp. 2. Alberta votes Monday on ten referendum questio...

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Icy Assault Looms Over the GTA: Toronto Awaits a Storm of Freezing Rain

A pronounced winter threat challenges southern Ontario this Saturday as freezing rain continues to blanket the region. Early morning reports confirm that communities surrounding Toronto—including Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, Newmarket, and others—are already feeling the impact, with even heavier accumulations expected in higher terrain as the storm advances .

Toronto, along with neighboring cities like Mississauga and Brampton, is bracing for a surge in freezing rain expected to kick in by Saturday night. Environment Canada warns that ice buildup of 3 to 5 millimetres in the urban core could lead to slippery roadways, broken tree branches, and power outages, while some areas in Durham Region might see accumulations up to 10 millimetres. With the storm projected to persist into Sunday morning before gradually shifting to rain as temperatures near the freezing mark, officials urge citizens to exercise extra caution on the roads .

Authorities are advising residents to postpone non-essential travel and closely monitor local weather updates. As the freezing conditions threaten infrastructure—risking both treacherous driving conditions and utility disruptions—the public is encouraged to prepare emergency supplies and stay aware of rapidly changing conditions .

This severe late-winter storm is a vivid reminder of nature’s unpredictable force. Whether it’s safeguarding vehicles with winter tires or ensuring that emergency kits are within easy reach, every precaution counts. As southern Ontario rallies in the face of this icy onslaught, communities remain united in their determination to weather the storm and protect one another .

Beyond the immediate concerns, many might wonder how best to prepare for similar events in the future, or even what historical weather patterns suggest about the resilience of the region during such icy bouts. Exploring preparedness strategies—ranging from safe driving tips on ice-covered roads to effective home power backup solutions—can provide valuable insights in mitigating risks during severe winter weather.

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