Following Bank of Canada rate cut, Macklem says it’s “reasonable” to expect more

At the beginning of September, The Bank of Canada announced a quarter-point cut to its overnight target rate, reducing it to 4.50%, and hinted that further reductions may follow if inflation trends positively. This rate is now 50 basis points below its previous peak of 5.00%. Governor Tiff Macklem suggested that additional cuts could occur depending on the inflation trajectory, emphasizing a cautious, data-driven approach. Despite easing price pressures overall, specific sectors like shelter and certain services continue to exert upward pressure on inflation.

Alongside the rate cut, the Bank updated its economic forecasts, projecting slower GDP growth for 2024 at 1.2%, down from the earlier estimate of 1.5%. Inflation is expected to remain stable at 2.6% for 2024, with a gradual decline to the 2% target by 2026. Although the recent rate cut is seen as a positive development for borrowers, rates remain restrictive relative to current inflation. Economists anticipate further cuts, with discussions suggesting potential reductions could occur in the coming months, contingent on upcoming economic data.