In a surprising move, the Bank of Canada announced its fourth consecutive interest rate reduction on Wednesday, dropping the key rate by 50 basis points to 3.75%.
This significant cut, the largest in over four years, reflects a decline in inflation, which fell to 1.6% in September, below the bank’s target of 2%.
After previously raising rates to combat soaring prices, the central bank has shifted its approach since June, implementing a total of 75 basis points in cuts.
During the news conference following the announcement, Governor Tiff McLem expressed optimism, stating that Canadians could feel relieved as the long battle against inflation is finally showing positive outcomes.
Despite these cuts, economic indicators remain subdued, with weak demand, sluggish business sales, and low consumer confidence hindering growth. McLem is hopeful that the latest rate adjustment will stimulate demand and encourage economic activity.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Federal Reserve has also begun a rate-cutting cycle, prompting speculation about a possible significant cut in December.
The U.S. economy may be closer to a downturn than many realize, according to Jay Bryson, chief economist at Wells Fargo.
Morgan Stanley has issued a cautionary outlook on the U.S. dollar, predicting a major decline over the coming year as Federal Reserve rate cuts take hold.
Legendary investor Ray Dalio has issued a stark warning about the trajectory of U.S. government finances, suggesting the country is drifting toward a series of severe economic shocks unless its debt spiral is urgently addressed.
Steve Eisman, the famed investor known for forecasting the 2008 housing collapse, is sounding the alarm—not on overvalued tech stocks or interest rates, but on the escalating risk of global trade disputes.