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“Attention Canadians: Inflation Inches Closer to Bank of Canada’s Target”
In October, the inflation rate in Canada came in at 3.1 per cent, moving ever closer to the Bank of Canada’s target of 2 per cent. However, this figure was a drop of 0.7 percentage points from September, driven mainly by a decrease in the price of gasoline, according to Statistics Canada’s Consumer Price Index report.
Gasoline Prices Drop
Following a 7.5 per cent increase in September, the cost to fill up the tank dropped 7.8 per cent in October, thanks to lower refining margins as producers switched to the cheaper winter gas blend and the base-year effect. In October 2022, gasoline rose 9.2 per cent after the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced production cuts. Without gasoline, inflation was 3.6 per cent in October, down from 3.7 per cent in September.
Grocery Prices and Services Costs
Canadians spent 5.4 per cent more on groceries in October compared to the previous year, but the rate of increase slowed down. Food prices were up 5.8 per cent in September. Additionally, the cost of services rose 4.6 per cent year over year, with rent increasing by 8.3 per cent and property taxes rising by 4.9 per cent from October of last year. Travel tours, particularly to U.S. destinations, also saw an 11.3 per cent increase after a 2.2 per cent drop the previous month.
What’s Next?
Statistics Canada is set to release the inflation rate for November on December 19. As we move forward, it is crucial to keep an eye on these numbers and their impact on the economy.
Conclusion
The increasing inflation rate in Canada presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals and the country’s overall economic landscape. As we navigate the complexities of rising costs, it is important to consider the implications for various sectors and demographics. At the heart of the matter lies the need to address the root causes of inflation and explore sustainable solutions for long-term economic stability.
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