B.C. Premier David Eby announced Thursday that the promised $1,000 rebate cheque, a central and costly pledge from the fall provincial election, might be reconsidered as part of a comprehensive government spending review. The Uncertain Future of the Grocery Rebate The so-called “grocery rebate” would have provided the average single taxpayer with $500 and the Continue reading
Kathy Hilton
Canadian Dollar Drops to Multi-Year Lows
The Canadian Dollar (CAD) has taken a hit, plunging to familiar multi-year lows last seen during the pandemic. This drop has pushed USD/CAD above the 1.4400 handle, keeping the Loonie at its weakest bids in years. As the trading week ends, the lack of significant economic data leaves traders focused on the widening interest rate Continue reading
Canada’s 2025 Tax Updates New Brackets, CPP Contribution Changes, and More
As we enter 2025, there are several updates to federal policies that could influence Canadians’ financial planning. While some adjustments are routine, others may require more strategic preparation, especially with significant changes such as those affecting the capital gains tax. Below is an overview of the key changes you need to know. Changes to Canadian Continue reading
Government Benefits Coming in January 2025 Ontario Trillium Benefit, Canada Child Benefit, CPP, ODSP, and More
January 2025 is a busy month for benefit payments in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and when the money should arrive in your bank account or by mail. Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) The Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) is scheduled for issuance on January 10, 2025. If you’re eligible, the funds will likely Continue reading
Canadian Mortgage and Real Estate Market Forecast for 2025
I hope everyone had a restful and joyful holiday season. As is tradition on this blog, the new year begins with a review of past predictions and a forward-looking analysis of what 2025 may bring in the mortgage and real estate markets. 2024 Prediction #1: The Bank of Canada (BoC) Will Substantially Reduce Its Policy Continue reading
CRA Update 2025 Sees an Increase in the Basic Personal Amount!
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced a game-changing update for 2025: no federal taxes on the first $16,129 of income! This increase in the Basic Personal Amount (BPA) provides significant tax relief, especially for low- and middle-income Canadians. Whether you earn below or above this threshold, this update ensures you’ll keep more of your Continue reading
Could Trump’s Tariffs Hit Canadian Oil & Gas Earnings Hard in 2025?
Canada’s largest oil and gas producers are ramping up their production plans for 2025 despite U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s proposed 25% blanket tariff on crude imports. With the U.S. as Canada’s largest trade partner, accounting for over 75% of exports—including over 20% from oil and gas—these developments hold significant economic implications. U.S. Tariff Threat and Continue reading
Gas Prices Surge Across Canada Five Cities See Double Digit Increases This Week
Gas prices in Canada surged over the past week, with several cities experiencing significant increases. According to data from Kalibrate, the national average price for regular fuel rose by 1.2 cents per litre between January 2 and January 9, 2025.] Notable Gas Price Increases Chicoutimi, Quebec, recorded the highest increase, with gas prices jumping by Continue reading
Rare Australian 5 Cent Coin Valued at $4,000 Highly Sought After
Did you know a rare minting error on a 2016 Australian 5-cent coin could make it worth as much as $4,000? Coin collectors worldwide are on the hunt for this unique piece, nicknamed the ‘alien,’ due to its unusual features. What Makes the 2016 5-Cent Coin Special? One of the main reasons collectors are so Continue reading
Freeland to Scrap Promised $250 Cheques for Working Canadians in Monday’s Mini-Budget
If you were among the nearly 19 million working Canadians expecting a $250 cheque from the Liberal government in the new year, it’s time to put those plans on hold. Sources indicate that Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has decided to scrap the “Working Canadians Rebate” program, initially estimated to cost $4.68 billion. Why Was the Continue reading