Skip to main content

Featured

CMHC Just Cut Its Housing Forecast — What It Means If You're Buying, Selling, or Renewing

  Published July 28, 2026 Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation quietly downgraded its outlook for the rest of 2026 last week, and the new numbers are worth a look no matter which side of the housing market you're standing on. The federal housing agency's Summer 2026 update now calls for slower growth, softer home prices, fewer new builds and continued easing in rental markets right through the end of the year — with a split that leaves Ontario and B.C. looking a lot different from the Prairies and Quebec. Here's what's actually in the update, and what it means for your specific situation. What CMHC changed The agency's baseline call for 2026 is a Canadian economy growing at just 0.7%, with high borrowing costs, weak population growth and cautious buyers keeping a lid on demand even as affordability has technically improved. The practical result, nationally: Housing starts are expected to fall to about 241,400 units this year, down from 259,028 in 2025 Resale acti...

article

Russia Cuts Off WhatsApp, Pushes Citizens Toward State Messaging App

Russian messenger app MAX is displayed on a smartphone next to the WhatsApp logo. The latter app has been barred in Russia, with authorities pushing state-backed MAX.



Russia has moved to fully block WhatsApp nationwide, escalating its long-running effort to tighten control over digital communication. Officials claim the platform failed to comply with domestic regulations, prompting authorities to shut down access for millions of users.

In place of WhatsApp, the government is promoting MAX, a state-backed messaging service it describes as secure, reliable, and aligned with national interests. Russian officials argue that relying on foreign platforms poses risks, while critics warn that the shift could expand state surveillance and limit private communication.

The move fits into a broader pattern of Russia steering users toward homegrown digital ecosystems as it seeks greater control over information flows and online activity.

Comments