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BoC Opens the Door to Rate Hikes: What It Means for Your Mortgage

  Published September 4, 2026 The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25% on September 2 — the seventh straight hold — but Governor Tiff Macklem didn't sound like a central banker done for the year. He told reporters the Bank is "prepared to raise interest rates, and if it takes more than one increase, we're prepared to do that," if inflation stays too high. That's a real shift in tone, and it lands right as a wave of Canadians hit their mortgage renewal date. Here's what changed, who's forecasting what, and what it actually means for your payment. Why the Bank Suddenly Sounds Hawkish Canada's annual inflation rate has climbed to around 3% — a full point above the Bank's 2% target — and the Bank is pointing squarely at energy prices. Oil has stayed elevated because of the Iran conflict and disruption near the Strait of Hormuz, pushing gas prices up and dragging headline CPI with it. Core inflation, which strips out food and energy, is still s...

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Smog Crisis in India: Taj Mahal Shrouded, Flights Delayed





A thick blanket of toxic smog has enveloped northern India, severely impacting visibility and air quality. The iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, a symbol of love and architectural marvel, has been obscured by the dense haze, leaving visitors disappointed. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, another significant landmark, has also been affected.

The smog, caused by a combination of high pollution levels, humidity, and stagnant winds, has led to significant disruptions in daily life. Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) has been recorded in the ‘severe’ category, with visibility dropping to just 300 meters at the city’s international airport. This has resulted in numerous flight delays, with 88% of departures and 54% of arrivals affected.

Health concerns are rising as hospitals report an increase in patients, particularly children, suffering from respiratory issues such as allergies, coughs, and asthma attacks. The situation is exacerbated by the illegal burning of crop residues in the farming states of Punjab and Haryana, contributing to the already hazardous air quality.

Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and use air purifiers if possible. The smog is expected to persist, with slight improvements anticipated in the coming days as weather conditions change.


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