Skip to main content

Featured

5 Things to Know Today: BoC Decision Day, Fed, Loonie, Tariff Talks and OAS Boost

  Canadian Money Brief 5 Things to Know Today Wednesday, October 28, 2026 It’s a heavy day for Canadian wallets. The Bank of Canada announces its rate decision this morning, the U.S. Fed follows this afternoon, tariff talks are heating up, and bigger OAS deposits land in bank accounts. Here’s what to know. 1 The Bank of Canada decides this morning — a hike is widely expected The decision lands at 9:45 a.m. ET, along with a new Monetary Policy Report. Markets and economists expect a quarter-point increase to 2.50% from 2.25%, which would be the first hike since July 2023. Nineteen of 34 economists in a Reuters poll called for the move, and investors were pricing roughly a 75% chance on Tuesday. The case for it: inflation hit 3.1% in September, driven almost entirely by energy, even as core measures eased below 2%. What it means for you A hike would likely lift prime rates quickly, so variable-rate mortgages and HELOCs feel it first. Roughly, 0.25 points adds about $250 a year per $...

article

Canada’s Alert Ready System Set for Annual Test Today



Canada’s emergency public alerting system, Alert Ready, is undergoing its annual test today across most provinces and territories. The test will be broadcast on TV, radio, and compatible wireless devices, ensuring that the system functions properly and raises public awareness.

Each province and territory has a designated test time, ranging from morning to afternoon, except Quebec, which is not participating in this round of testing. The test will simulate an emergency alert, complete with the distinctive alert tone, but requires no action from the public.

The Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) mandates at least one test per year, typically conducted during Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs from May 4–10 this year. The goal is to ensure Canadians are familiar with the system and prepared for real emergencies, such as tornadoes, floods, fires, and AMBER alerts.

While most Canadians will receive the test alert, some may not due to device compatibility, network connection, or cell tower coverage. Given the importance of emergency warnings, Canadians cannot opt out of receiving these alerts.

This annual test serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness. Canadians are encouraged to review their emergency plans and kits to ensure they are ready for unexpected situations.


Comments