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5 Things Every Canadian Should Know About Their Money Today

  Published on: May 1, 2026 Site: moneysavings.ca/canadian-money-brief Whether you're watching your mortgage rate, filing your taxes, or wondering what Ottawa's big spending announcements mean for your wallet — here's your fast briefing for May 1, 2026. 1. The Bank of Canada Is Holding Steady at 2.25% On April 29, the Bank of Canada held its overnight policy rate at 2.25% — exactly where markets expected it to land. Governor Tiff Macklem cited a volatile mix of ongoing U.S. trade uncertainty and rising energy prices tied to the conflict in the Middle East as reasons to stay the course rather than cut or hike. The next rate decision is scheduled for June 10, 2026 . What it means for you: Variable-rate mortgage and HELOC holders get a reprieve from any further hikes for now. Don't expect a cut anytime soon either — the Bank signalled it's watching inflation data closely before moving in either direction. 2. Tax Deadline Was Yesterday — Here's What to...

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Israel Orders New Evacuations in Rafah as it Prepares to Expand Military Operations

 

In a significant development, Israel has ordered new evacuations in Gaza’s southern city of Rafah. Tens of thousands of people are being forced to move as the Israeli military prepares to expand its operations closer to the heavily populated central area. This move comes despite growing pressure from close ally the United States and other international actors.

The situation in Rafah is critical. Israel has already evacuated the eastern third of the city, which is considered the last refuge in Gaza. However, the United Nations and other agencies have warned that a full-scale invasion of Rafah would have dire consequences for humanitarian operations and could lead to a surge in civilian casualties. Rafah shares a border with Egypt near the main aid entry points, which have already been affected by the conflict.

U.S. President Joe Biden has taken a firm stance, stating that offensive weapons will not be provided to Israel for its operations in Rafah. The U.S. report also highlighted “reasonable” evidence that Israel breached international law protecting civilians during its war against Hamas. In response, Israel emphasized its compliance with the laws of armed conflict and its efforts to minimize civilian casualties.

More than 1.4 million Palestinians—half of Gaza’s population—have sought refuge in Rafah, most of them fleeing Israel’s offensives elsewhere. The ongoing evacuations are forcing people to return north to areas that have already been devastated by previous Israeli attacks. Displaced residents are grappling with the difficult decision of leaving their homes in search of safety. As one Rafah resident put it, “The Israeli army does not have a safe area in Gaza. They target everything” .

The situation remains tense, and the international community closely watches the developments in Rafah. The impact on civilians and humanitarian operations cannot be overstated, and efforts to find a peaceful resolution continue amidst the escalating conflict.


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