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Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are warmly spiced, with crisp edges and soft centers—perfect for holiday decorating and eating. Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cloves ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar ¾ cup unsulfured molasses 1 large egg Instructions Mix dry ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Cream butter & sugar : In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add molasses and egg. Combine : Gradually add dry mixture until dough forms. Chill dough : Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll & cut : Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Bake : Place on parchment-lined sheets and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set. Cool & decorate : Let cool com...
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Canada’s Economy Surges: Q4 Growth Exceeds Expectations By Copilot

 

In a welcome turn of events, Canada’s economy demonstrated resilience by surpassing expectations in the fourth quarter of 2023. Here are the key highlights:

Fourth-Quarter Growth

  • Annualized Rate: The Canadian economy expanded at an impressive annualized rate of 1.0% during Q4. This growth rate exceeded both the Bank of Canada’s (BoC) conservative 0.0% forecast and the 0.8% growth rate anticipated by analysts in a Reuters poll.

  • Exports Fuel Growth: The surge in quarterly growth was primarily driven by a rise in exports, even as imports declined. This positive momentum reflects the country’s ability to navigate global challenges.

  • Business Investment Moderates: While exports played a pivotal role, a decline in business investment acted as a moderating factor. Balancing these dynamics is crucial for sustained economic progress.

Inflation and Monetary Policy

  • Central Bank’s Dilemma: The Bank of Canada faces a delicate balancing act. With inflation still running above its 2% target at 2.9%, the central bank must carefully consider its next moves.

  • Interest Rates: The BoC’s focus has shifted from rate hikes to potential rate cuts. The current policy rate stands at a 22-year high of 5%. The bank’s next announcement is scheduled for March 6, where it is expected to maintain rates.

  • Market Expectations: Money markets predict a rate cut in June, with bets fully priced in for a 25 basis point cut in July. Investors are closely monitoring economic indicators for clues on the central bank’s future actions.

January’s Momentum

  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP) likely grew by 0.4% in January, according to Statistics Canada data. Sectors such as educational services and health care contributed positively, while mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction faced headwinds.

As Canada continues its economic journey, policymakers, businesses, and investors remain vigilant. The robust Q4 performance provides hope for sustained growth, but challenges persist. 

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