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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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TD Bank Fined $3 Billion for Money Laundering Violations

 


Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD Bank) has agreed to pay a staggering $3 billion in fines after pleading guilty to multiple charges of money laundering and failing to maintain an adequate anti-money laundering program. This historic settlement marks the largest penalty ever imposed under the U.S. Bank Secrecy Act.

The charges stem from TD Bank’s failure to monitor and report suspicious activities, which allowed drug traffickers and other criminals to launder significant sums of money through the bank’s accounts. U.S. authorities revealed that TD Bank employees were bribed to facilitate these illegal transactions, with over $670 million being laundered through the bank over several years.

In addition to the financial penalties, TD Bank will face an asset cap, limiting its growth in the U.S. market. The bank has also committed to enhancing its compliance programs to prevent future violations.

Bharat Masrani, CEO of TD Bank Group, issued an apology, acknowledging the bank’s failures and pledging to make necessary changes to restore trust and compliance.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust anti-money laundering measures and the severe consequences of neglecting them.


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