Bank of Canada Holds Key Rate Steady Signaling a pause in its tightening campaign, but leaving the door open for future hikes
The Bank of Canada (BoC) kept its key interest rate on hold at 5% today, as widely expected by economists and markets.This marks the fourth consecutive time the central bank has held its rate steady, following a rapid tightening cycle that saw the rate rise from near zero to 5% in just over a year.
The decision comes as the Canadian economy shows signs of slowing down, with GDP growth expected to come in at around 1.5% in 2024, down from 3.2% in 2023. The housing market has also cooled significantly, with prices falling in many major cities.
"The governing council judged that keeping the policy rate on hold would be appropriate at this time, while the governing council continues to assess the impact of higher interest rates and the evolution of the global economic outlook," the BoC said in a statement.
The central bank also said that it is "prepared to adjust the policy rate in either direction to achieve its inflation target." This suggests that the BoC is still open to raising rates if inflation remains too high, or cutting rates if the economy weakens more than expected.
What does this mean for Canadians?
The BoC's decision to hold rates steady is good news for borrowers, as it means that variable-rate mortgages and other loans will not become more expensive in the short term. However, it is also a sign that the economy is slowing down,which could lead to job losses and slower wage growth.
Canadians should also be aware that the BoC has left the door open for future rate hikes. If inflation remains too high, the central bank could be forced to raise rates again, which would put upward pressure on interest rates and borrowing costs.
Here are some key takeaways from the BoC's decision:
- The BoC is taking a pause in its tightening cycle, but it is still open to raising rates if needed.
- The Canadian economy is slowing down, but the BoC does not expect a recession.
- Canadians should be prepared for higher interest rates if inflation remains too high.
The BoC's decision to hold rates steady is a significant event for the Canadian economy. It is a signal that the central bank is taking a cautious approach to monetary policy, as it balances the need to combat inflation with the need to support economic growth. Canadians should closely monitor the BoC's future decisions and adjust their financial plans accordingly.