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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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Ontario's Measles Crisis: A Community on High Alert

In the heart of Ontario, a measles outbreak has gripped the province, marking the largest surge since the disease was declared eliminated in Canada in 1998. With over 470 cases reported since October, the outbreak has spread across multiple regions, including Southwestern Ontario and Grand Erie, where the majority of cases are concentrated. 

The highly contagious nature of measles, coupled with low vaccination rates in certain areas, has fueled the rapid spread. Public health officials are urging residents to ensure their immunizations are up-to-date, as unvaccinated children account for most of the hospitalizations. 

Efforts to contain the outbreak include enhanced surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and the use of innovative tools like wastewater testing in cities like Ottawa. This method, though still in its early stages, offers a promising way to detect the virus and prevent further spread. 

As Ontario battles this public health challenge, the importance of vaccination and community vigilance has never been clearer. The fight against measles is a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect the most vulnerable among us.

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