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BoC Holds at 2.25%: What the Rate Decision (and Rising Gas Prices) Mean for Your Wallet

  Thursday, July 16, 2026 Sixth consecutive hold. A weaker 2026 growth forecast. And inflation that's running hotter because of gas prices, not the usual suspects. Here's what actually changes for you. The Bank of Canada held its overnight rate at 2.25% on Wednesday, exactly as markets expected. No surprise there. What's more interesting is why it held, and what it revealed about where the economy — and your bills — are headed next. This was the sixth straight hold since the Bank finished its easing cycle back in October. But buried in the accompanying Monetary Policy Report were a few numbers worth your attention. The Numbers That Matter Overnight Rate 2.25% (unchanged) Prime Rate (typical) 4.45% 2026 GDP Growth Forecast 0.7% (cut from 1.2%) 2027 / 2028 Growth Forecast 1.8% each year May CPI Inflation 3.2% Inflation Excluding Gasoline 2.2% Unemployment Rate (June) 6.5% Next Rate Decision September 2, 2026 Why Gas Prices Are Driving This Decision Here's the twist in th...

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Israel Seeks to Avoid All-Out War Amid Lebanon Tensions

 

In the wake of a deadly rocket strike that killed 12 children and teenagers in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, Israeli officials have expressed their intent to avoid escalating the situation into a full-scale war with Lebanon. The strike, which occurred over the weekend, has heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group based in Lebanon.

Israeli officials have stated that while they aim to deliver a significant response to Hezbollah, they are keen to prevent the conflict from spiraling into a broader regional war. The Israeli security cabinet has authorized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to determine the timing and manner of the response, with options ranging from targeted strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure to more symbolic attacks on key facilities.

The situation remains volatile, with both sides engaging in cross-border skirmishes. An Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon on Monday resulted in two fatalities and three injuries, including an infant. Despite these incidents, there is a concerted effort from international leaders to de-escalate the conflict. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of restraint and reiterated support for Israel’s right to defend itself while urging both parties to avoid further escalation.

As the region braces for potential retaliation, diplomatic efforts are intensifying to prevent a full-scale war that could have devastating consequences for the Middle East.



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