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.