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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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Mass Displacement in Lebanon Amid Escalating Conflict

 

Lebanon is facing a humanitarian crisis as over one million people have been displaced due to escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah. The conflict has intensified, with Israeli airstrikes targeting various locations, including the Lebanese capital, Beirut.

The Lebanese Health Ministry reports that more than 1,000 people have been killed and at least 6,000 wounded in the past two weeks. The situation has forced approximately one-fifth of the population to flee their homes, seeking safety in less affected areas or neighboring countries.

The displaced population is experiencing severe hardships. Many have found temporary refuge in places like the city of Sidon, where they sleep in parking lots, or in mountain villages like Aramoun, where locals have opened their homes to those in need. The fear and anxiety among the displaced are palpable, as they worry about their safety even in their new locations.

The conflict has also affected Syrian refugees in Lebanon, who now find themselves displaced once again. Raed Ali, a Syrian refugee, expressed his despair, stating, "We don’t know where to go. That is the problem, we don’t know what our fate is".

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with humanitarian organizations working to provide aid and support to the displaced population. However, the ongoing violence and the potential for further escalation continue to pose significant challenges for relief efforts.

As the conflict shows no signs of abating, the displaced Lebanese population remains in a state of uncertainty and fear, hoping for a resolution that will allow them to return to their homes safely.


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