Skip to main content

Featured

5 Things to Know Today: BoC Hike Odds Near 80%, Oil Tops US$100, Loonie Hits 5-Week High

  Canadian Money Brief  |  Saturday, October 24, 2026 The Bank of Canada is expected to raise rates on Wednesday, oil is back above US$100 and stocks slipped on AI worries. Here are the five things to know this Saturday, and what each one means for your wallet. 1 The Bank of Canada is widely expected to hike on Wednesday Markets are putting roughly an 80% chance on a quarter-point increase at the Bank of Canada’s Oct. 28 decision, which would lift the policy rate from 2.25% to 2.50%. A majority of economists polled by Reuters also expect a second hike by the end of March. The shift followed hawkish comments from Governor Tiff Macklem about a higher inflation outlook driven by oil. What it means for you Every 0.25-point increase adds about $250 a year (roughly $21 a month) for each $100,000 of prime-linked debt, such as a variable-rate mortgage or HELOC. Fixed-rate holders are not hit directly, but renewals are being priced off higher bond yields. Savers may see HISA and...

article

Hospitals Overwhelmed as New Virus Spreads in China

Hospitals across northern China are facing unprecedented pressure as a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) overwhelms healthcare systems. The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms, has led to overcrowded emergency rooms and intensive care units, reminiscent of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

HMPV, a respiratory virus discovered in 2001, typically causes mild symptoms such as cough, fever, and congestion. However, this winter has seen a significant spike in infections, particularly among children and the elderly. Health authorities are implementing emergency measures to manage the outbreak, but the sheer volume of cases is straining resources.

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that while the virus is not new, the current outbreak is more severe than usual. Officials are urging the public to take precautions such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

Despite the challenges, experts remain optimistic that the situation can be managed with coordinated efforts and public cooperation. The global community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping to prevent a repeat of the widespread impact seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the world watches, the resilience of China's healthcare system and the effectiveness of its response will be put to the test once again.



Comments