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5 Things to Know Today: BoC Hike Bets, TSX Slide, Oil Near $100 (Oct. 23)

  Canadian Money Brief • Friday, October 23, 2026 The Bank of Canada decision is five days away, the TSX gave back most of Wednesday's gains, and oil is flirting with US$100 again. Here are the five things Canadian wallets need to know today. 1. Markets Lean Toward a Bank of Canada Hike on Oct. 28 A decision that looked like a ninth straight hold is now a genuine coin flip with a hawkish tilt. After Governor Tiff Macklem warned that there is "no resolution in sight" for the Middle East conflict, BMO and Desjardins flipped to a hike call, Scotiabank firmed up its call and Goldman Sachs joined them, all looking for a quarter-point move to 2.50%. Overnight swaps priced about an 87% chance of a hike earlier this week, though other economists still argue for a hold, pointing to September's 68,000 job losses and a 6.5% unemployment rate. What it means for you: A quarter-point hike adds roughly $21 a month in interest for every $100,000 of variable-rate borrowing (HELOCs an...

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Desperation in Gaza: Hunger Crisis Deepens Amid Looting

The Gaza Strip is witnessing a growing hunger crisis, marked by increased looting of food stores and community kitchens. Aid officials report that desperation has surged two months after Israel imposed a blockade on medical, fuel, and food supplies. At least five incidents of looting were recorded recently, including thefts at community kitchens, merchants' stores, and the UN Palestinian refugee agency's main complex.

The looting reflects the dire situation in Gaza, where hunger and hopelessness are spreading rapidly. Community kitchens, which have been lifelines for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, are now at risk of closure due to dwindling supplies and looting. Acute malnutrition among children is worsening, with thousands of cases identified, including severe instances.

The blockade, enforced since March 2, has led to skyrocketing food prices and shortages of essential items. Aid organizations warn that the situation is reaching unprecedented levels, with humanitarian efforts hindered by operational and security constraints.

The crisis underscores the urgent need for international intervention to address the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.

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