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Ottawa’s Global Call for Research Excellence

Industry Minister Mélanie Joly at a press conference in Montreal about a federal push to attract top global researchers in Canada on Dec. 9, 2025. The federal government is stepping up efforts to strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in innovation by attracting top-tier research talent. Ottawa has announced new initiatives designed to bring world-class scientists, scholars, and innovators to Canadian institutions, with a particular focus on Canadians currently working abroad. The strategy emphasizes creating competitive opportunities in universities and research centers, offering funding packages, and fostering collaborations with international partners. By encouraging Canadian researchers overseas to return home, Ottawa hopes to reverse the “brain drain” and ensure that Canada benefits from their expertise. Officials highlight that this move is not only about filling positions but also about building a vibrant ecosystem of discovery and innovation. The goal is to accelera...

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U.S. Treasury Secretary Warns of Approaching Debt Ceiling Crisis


Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has issued a stark warning that the United States could hit its debt ceiling as early as mid-January. In a letter to congressional leaders, Yellen stated that her agency would need to begin taking "extraordinary measures" to prevent the nation from breaching the debt limit. These measures are special accounting maneuvers intended to keep the government operating without defaulting on its obligations.

Yellen emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging Congress to act swiftly to protect the full faith and credit of the United States. The debt ceiling, which had been suspended until January 1, 2025, is expected to be reinstated on January 2, 2025. However, due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments, the Treasury does not expect to need to take extraordinary measures until January 14 to January 23.

The federal debt currently stands at approximately $36 trillion, a figure that has grown significantly over the years under both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation following the COVID-19 pandemic has further increased government borrowing costs, making the situation even more critical.

Yellen's warning comes after President Joe Biden signed a bill last week that averted a government shutdown but did not address the debt ceiling issue. The bill was passed only after intense debate among Republicans over how to handle President-elect Donald Trump's demand to raise or suspend the debt limit.

As the new year approaches, the nation's fiscal health hangs in the balance, with lawmakers facing a critical decision on how to address the impending debt ceiling crisis.




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