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Canadian Money Brief: 5 Things to Know Today — May 18, 2026

  A quick scan of the five stories shaping your wallet right now — from the Bank of Canada's next big decision to your mortgage renewal and a brand-new federal agency hunting financial criminals. 1 Bank of Canada Rate Holds at 2.25% — Next Decision Is June 10 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight policy rate steady at 2.25% at its April 29 meeting, citing a rise in energy-driven inflation and ongoing uncertainty from U.S. tariffs. Governing Council held firm while acknowledging a rate hike could become necessary if oil-linked price pressures prove persistent. The next announcement lands on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 — mark your calendar. Why it matters: Your variable-rate mortgage, HELOC, and lines of credit are directly tied to this rate. With bank prime rates sitting at 4.45%, every meeting counts. 2 Markets TSX Slips Below 34,000 as Bond Yields Spike The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished last week down close to 2%, sliding under the 34,000 mark. A global bond market selloff...

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Kremlin Criticizes U.S.-Proposed Ceasefire as Favoring Ukraine

A senior Kremlin official has expressed skepticism over a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Yuri Ushakov, a top foreign policy aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, stated that the ceasefire would merely provide a temporary respite for Ukraine's military forces. Speaking to state television, Ushakov emphasized that Russia seeks a long-term peaceful settlement that addresses its strategic concerns and interests.

The proposal, endorsed by Ukraine, has been presented as a step toward de-escalating the three-year conflict. However, Ushakov criticized the initiative, suggesting it could be a tactical move to bolster Ukraine's military preparedness. The Kremlin has indicated that it requires more detailed information from the U.S. before taking a definitive stance on the matter.

The ceasefire proposal comes amid intensified diplomatic efforts by the U.S., with President Donald Trump urging both sides to consider the plan as a pathway to broader peace negotiations. While Ukraine has signaled its willingness to support the truce, Russia's response remains uncertain, with officials reiterating their focus on achieving a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the conflict.

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