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Canada’s Housing Market Faces Headwinds Despite BoC Moves

The Bank of Canada’s 25-basis-point cut in September was at best ignored by the national market, with sales falling 1.7 per cent compared to the month before. The Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate adjustments have done little to revive the country’s housing market, which continues to struggle under the weight of broader economic concerns. In September, the central bank cut its policy rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 2.5%. Yet, instead of sparking renewed activity, national home sales actually fell by 1.7% compared to the previous month.  Economists note that the housing market is no longer moving in lockstep with monetary policy, but is instead being shaped by regional affordability challenges, consumer psychology, and—most critically—job security fears. Uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy has also cast a shadow over Canada’s economic outlook. Businesses remain hesitant to invest, and households are wary of making major financial commitments such as home purchas...

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Pope Francis to Make First Public Appearance in Over a Month

Pope Francis, 88, is set to make his first public appearance in five weeks this Sunday. The Vatican announced that the pontiff, who has been battling double pneumonia, will greet the public and offer a blessing from the window of his room at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. This marks a significant moment, as the pope has been hospitalized since February 14, making this his longest absence from public view since his election in 2013.

While his health has shown improvement, the Vatican has indicated that Pope Francis will not deliver the traditional Angelus prayer this Sunday, signaling that his recovery is ongoing. The pope's hospitalization has been a challenging period, but his resilience and determination to connect with the faithful remain evident.

This appearance will undoubtedly bring relief and joy to Catholics worldwide, who have been praying for his swift recovery. It also highlights the pope's commitment to his role, even amidst health challenges.

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