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Bank of Canada Holds the Line as Global Turmoil Clouds Outlook

  Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem takes part in a press conference in Ottawa on September 17, 2025 The Bank of Canada has opted to keep its key interest rate steady at 2.25%, a decision that reflects the delicate balancing act policymakers face as global uncertainty intensifies. With inflationary pressures rising and economic growth showing signs of strain, the central bank is navigating a narrow path shaped by forces largely outside its control. A major driver of the current tension is the surge in oil prices triggered by ongoing geopolitical conflict. Higher energy costs are feeding into broader inflation, raising concerns that price pressures could become more persistent. At the same time, elevated borrowing costs and weakening consumer confidence are weighing on domestic economic momentum. By holding the rate, the Bank of Canada signals caution: it aims to avoid stifling growth while still keeping inflation expectations anchored. The central bank emphasized that it rema...
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China’s Chikungunya Crackdown: Zero-COVID Playbook Revisited

A worker sprays insecticide at a public housing estate last week following reports of imported cases of Chikungunya in Hong Kong.

China has swiftly responded to a chikungunya virus outbreak in its southern provinces by reactivating its pandemic-era control strategies. The mosquito-borne illness, which causes fever, joint pain, and rashes, has infected over 8,000 people—primarily in Foshan, Guangdong province.

Authorities deployed drones to locate mosquito breeding grounds, enforced fines for households failing to eliminate standing water, and mandated hospital stays for infected individuals. In some cases, residents reported intrusive health checks, including late-night blood sampling without consent. Measures also included spraying insecticides, releasing larva-eating fish, and even introducing larger mosquitoes to prey on virus carriers.

While the outbreak appears to be slowing, the aggressive tactics have sparked debate over civil liberties and public health priorities. China’s approach underscores its readiness to mobilize sweeping interventions to contain emerging health threats—even those not transmissible between humans.

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