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Canadian Money Brief: 5 Things to Know Today — May 18, 2026

  A quick scan of the five stories shaping your wallet right now — from the Bank of Canada's next big decision to your mortgage renewal and a brand-new federal agency hunting financial criminals. 1 Bank of Canada Rate Holds at 2.25% — Next Decision Is June 10 The Bank of Canada kept its overnight policy rate steady at 2.25% at its April 29 meeting, citing a rise in energy-driven inflation and ongoing uncertainty from U.S. tariffs. Governing Council held firm while acknowledging a rate hike could become necessary if oil-linked price pressures prove persistent. The next announcement lands on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 — mark your calendar. Why it matters: Your variable-rate mortgage, HELOC, and lines of credit are directly tied to this rate. With bank prime rates sitting at 4.45%, every meeting counts. 2 Markets TSX Slips Below 34,000 as Bond Yields Spike The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished last week down close to 2%, sliding under the 34,000 mark. A global bond market selloff...

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Ontario Begins Issuing $200 Taxpayer Rebates

The Ontario government has started mailing out $200 rebate cheques to eligible taxpayers. This initiative aims to provide relief from the high cost of living, including the federal carbon tax and high interest rates. 

Finance Miister Peter Bethlenfalvy stated, "With Ontario families struggling due to the federal carbon tax, high interest rates, and global economic uncertainty, our government is stepping up as part of our ongoing work to keep costs down and help families make ends meet."

To qualify for the rebate, residents must have been 18 years or older and a resident in Ontario on December 31, 2023, not be bankrupt or incarcerated in 2024, and have filed a 2023 Income Tax and Benefits Return by December 31, 2024. Families receiving the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will also get an additional $200 for each eligible child under 18.

The cheques are expected to reach families over the coming weeks, providing much-needed financial support during these challenging times.



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