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Wall Street Climbs as S&P 500 and Nasdaq Hit Fresh Records

U.S. stocks edged higher on Thursday, extending a bullish streak that pushed both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite to new closing highs . The S&P 500 rose 0.3% to finish at 6,280.46, while the Nasdaq added 0.2%, marking its second consecutive all-time high. The rally was fueled by strong corporate earnings and optimism around trade negotiations. Delta Air Lines surged 12%  after posting upbeat quarterly results and restoring its earnings outlook, sparking a broader rally in airline stocks. United Airlines and American Airlines climbed 14.3% and 13.9%, respectively. Tech enthusiasm remained strong, with Nvidia closing above a $4 trillion market cap , becoming the first public company to cross that threshold. Bitcoin also joined the rally, breaking past $113,000 amid renewed investor appetite for risk assets. Despite fresh tariff threats from President Trump—including a proposed 50% levy on Brazilian imports—markets shrugged off geopolitical concerns. Investors instead focuse...
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Navigating Interest Rate Changes: What Savers, Investors, and Borrowers Need to Know

 Bank of Canada

As the financial landscape shifts, understanding interest rates becomes crucial for anyone managing their money. Let’s explore how these changes impact different groups:

1. Savers: High-Interest Savings Accounts (HISAs)

High-Interest Savings Accounts (HISAs) offer an opportunity for savers to earn more on their deposits. Here are some top HISAs in Canada:

  1. EQ Bank Personal Account: With a 4.00% rate (including a 1.50% bonus for direct deposits), EQ Bank provides a competitive option.
  2. LBC Digital High-Interest Savings Account: Offers a 3.00% rate.
  3. Motive Savvy Savings Account: Boasts a 4.10% rate.
  4. Simplii Financial High Interest Savings Account: A 6.00% rate for the first 5 months.

Remember, HISAs provide liquidity—no penalties for withdrawals—unlike Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs). While GIC rates have surged recently, HISAs remain flexible.

2. Investors: Nominal vs. Real Interest Rates

Investors should understand the difference between nominal and real interest rates. Nominal rates represent the cost of borrowing or return on investments, while real rates account for inflation. Consider both when making investment decisions.

3. Borrowers: Impact of Rate Hikes

Higher interest rates benefit savers but can be challenging for borrowers. As the Bank of Canada holds its benchmark rate steady at 5%, consider these implications:

  • Mortgages: Variable-rate mortgage holders may see increased payments.
  • Consumer Loans: Interest costs rise for personal loans and credit cards.
  • Investment Decisions: Evaluate fixed vs. variable rates.

In summary, stay informed, adapt your financial strategy, and make the most of changing interest rates.

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