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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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Stalemate in Gaza Negotiations: Hopes for Ceasefire Dim


Efforts to restore peace in Gaza have hit another roadblock, as the latest round of talks in Cairo concluded without any significant progress. Egyptian and Palestinian sources revealed that Hamas remains firm in its stance, demanding that any agreement must lead to an end to the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Israel has reiterated its position that the war will continue until Hamas is completely dismantled.

Despite the impasse, there were glimpses of potential compromise. Hamas reportedly showed some flexibility regarding the number of hostages it might release in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, the militant group has requested guarantees that Israel will engage in discussions for the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, which aims to end the war.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with intensified Israeli airstrikes causing widespread devastation. Civilians are bearing the brunt of the conflict, as rescue workers struggle to recover bodies from the rubble of destroyed buildings. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, leaving the population in desperate need of relief.

The international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that could pave the way for lasting peace in the region. For now, the stalemate persists, and the path to resolution remains uncertain.

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