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Lock In or Wait? Why Two Big Banks Say Rates Are Going Up in October

  Published September 2, 2026 The Bank of Canada did exactly what all 35 economists in Reuters' latest poll expected today: it held its overnight rate at 2.25% for a sixth straight decision, keeping the prime rate at 4.45%. Bond markets had priced in barely a 3% chance of anything else. What's not settled is what happens next — and on that question, Canada's biggest banks are more split than they've been all year. Four of the Big Six expect the Bank to sit tight through the end of 2026. Two expect it to start hiking as soon as October. If you're renewing a mortgage in the next few months, that gap isn't academic — it's the difference between locking in now and gambling on a rate cycle turning against you. The Split, Bank by Bank Here's where the six largest banks stand on where the overnight rate lands by the end of 2026: Bank Year-end 2026 call Stance BMO 2.25% (hold) Hold camp CIBC 2.25% (hold) Hold camp RBC 2.25% (hold) Hold camp TD 2.25% (hold) Hold...

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Market Momentum: Futures Rise Amid Tariff Uncertainty

U.S. stock futures showed gains early Monday as investors navigated a mix of optimism and caution. The S&P 500 futures climbed 0.5%, while Nasdaq 100 futures rose 0.8%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures edged up 0.4%. This comes after a volatile February, with markets now bracing for key developments this week.

A major focus is the looming tariff deadlines set for March 4, which could impact trade with Canada, Mexico, and China. While 25% duties are planned, officials have hinted at potential adjustments, leaving markets in a "fluid situation." Investors are also eyeing the Federal Reserve's next meeting and Friday's nonfarm payrolls report, which is expected to show modest job growth with unemployment steady at 4%.

Adding to the mix, cryptocurrencies surged after President Trump announced the inclusion of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets in a new U.S. strategic cryptocurrency reserve. This move has sparked significant market activity, with Bitcoin briefly surpassing $94,000.

As the week unfolds, retail earnings from companies like Target and Costco will provide further insights into consumer resilience amid economic uncertainties. Markets remain on edge, balancing hopes for growth against the challenges of global trade and economic policy.

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