• Bank of Canada raises key interest rate to 2.5% in its first hike since 2023

  Source: CBC Politics
  Date: 2026-10-28 12:33:56.0
  Tags: [National, Economy, Finance, Trade, Affordability]

  The Bank of Canada, led by Governor Tiff Macklem, raised its benchmark overnight interest rate by 25 basis points to 2.5 per cent, marking its first rate hike since 2023. The central bank stated that the increase is necessary to curb persistent inflation—projected to remain above 3 per cent through much of 2027—which is driven largely by surging energy prices from the Middle East conflict and rising trade tensions with the United States. Policymakers warned that further rate hikes could occur depending on future economic uncertainties and cost pressures.

  Read Original

• P.E.I. consumers will pay more in wake of Canadian counter-tariffs

  Source: Prince Edward Island - Regional News
  Date: 2026-09-09 09:00:00.0
  Tags: [Prince Edward Island, National, Trade, Economy, Industry, Affordability]

  Retaliatory counter-tariffs implemented by Canada on American-made products took effect, raising import prices and impacting businesses and consumers on Prince Edward Island. Sam Sanderson, executive director of the Construction Association of Prince Edward Island, noted that approximately 65 per cent of construction materials used in the province originate from the U.S. and face these tariffs, potentially increasing material costs by 20 to 50 per cent. Prime Minister Mark Carney released a video stating that Canada will respond to the ongoing trade war by reducing reliance on the United States and pursuing new international trade agreements. Meanwhile, Prince Edward Island businesses such as MacArthur's Appliances, led by owner-operator Chris Welton, are managing price hikes and noting a shift in consumer sentiment away from American-made goods. The provincial government has also rolled out $12.5 million in support for businesses affected by U.S. tariffs.

  Read Original