Skip to main content

Featured

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...

article

The Thirst Crisis in Gaza: A Struggle for Survival

 

The Gaza Strip faces an escalating water crisis, with clean sources becoming increasingly scarce due to ongoing conflict and infrastructure damage. Hundreds of thousands of residents have lost access to clean water after the destruction of pipelines and wells during military offensives. Many are forced to walk long distances to fill containers from the few remaining wells, which often fail to provide safe drinking water.

The Coastal Aquifer Basin, Gaza's only natural water source, is severely depleted and polluted, rendering up to 97% of its water unfit for human consumption. Desalination plants and sanitation facilities have also been heavily damaged, leaving the population with limited options. The daily water supply has dropped to an average of 3-5 liters per person, far below the minimum needed for basic survival.

This crisis highlights the urgent need for humanitarian aid and sustainable solutions to ensure access to clean water for Gaza's 2.3 million residents. Without immediate intervention, the situation could worsen, threatening lives and livelihoods across the region.

Comments