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Bank of Canada Freezes Rates as Trump’s Tariff Threat Looms Over Economy

Bank of Canada Holds Rates Steady Amid Tariff Turmoil In a widely anticipated move, the Bank of Canada has opted to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 2.75% for the third consecutive time, as trade tensions with the United States intensify ahead of an August 1 tariff deadline. Economists had unanimously predicted the hold, citing mixed economic signals: while employment remains strong, core inflation continues to hover above the Bank’s target. Governor Tiff Macklem emphasized that monetary policy cannot offset the impact of prolonged trade conflicts, reiterating the Bank’s commitment to price stability for Canadians. The decision comes as President Trump threatens sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, including a potential 35% blanket rate and sector-specific levies on steel, aluminum, and autos. These measures have injected uncertainty into business planning and consumer confidence, with many firms scaling back hiring and investment. Despite the hold, analysts warn that further...
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Bank of England Holds Rates, Signals Easing Ahead Amid Job Market Strain

The Bank of England (BoE) has opted to keep its benchmark interest rate steady at 4.25%, maintaining a cautious stance as signs of a weakening labor market emerge. The decision, made by a 6-3 vote within the Monetary Policy Committee, reflects growing concern over rising unemployment and global economic uncertainty, particularly due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Governor Andrew Bailey emphasized that while inflation remains above the BoE’s 2% target, the central bank is closely monitoring the cooling job market and its potential to ease price pressures. “Interest rates remain on a gradual downward path,” Bailey noted, though he stressed that future moves would be data-dependent.

The BoE’s decision comes amid a backdrop of elevated energy prices and geopolitical instability, which could complicate efforts to bring inflation under control. Still, with wage growth slowing and job vacancies declining, policymakers appear increasingly open to further rate cuts—possibly as soon as August.

Investors are now pricing in at least two more quarter-point cuts by the end of 2025, signaling a shift toward a more accommodative monetary policy as the UK economy navigates uncertain terrain.


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