Skip to main content

Featured

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...

article

CMA Advocates for End to Sick Note Requirements: A Step Towards Better Healthcare Efficiency

 

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) has recently called for the elimination of sick note requirements by employers for short-term minor illnesses. This move aims to reduce the administrative burden on physicians and improve patient care. According to the CMA, the current practice of requiring sick notes for minor illnesses diverts valuable time and resources away from patient care, creating unnecessary strain on the healthcare system.

In a new position paper, the CMA recommends legislative changes to restrict the requirement for sick notes and promote alternatives such as self-certification and flexible leave policies. These changes are expected to enhance healthcare efficiency by preventing millions of unnecessary healthcare interactions annually.

The CMA’s call for action highlights the need for a more streamlined approach to managing minor illnesses in the workplace, ultimately benefiting both employees and the healthcare system.


Comments