Some consumers, businesses are feeling more optimistic about the economy, say BoC surveys

The Bank of Canada says business and consumer sentiment improved during the first quarter of the year, despite higher interest rates still putting a drag on the economy. The central bank on Monday released its business outlook and consumer expectations surveys, which showed increased optimism as people expect interest rate cuts are nearing. Although firms … Read more

Flair Airlines CEO looks to bid on Lynx planes after shutdown halts tentative merger

Flair Airlines chief executive Stephen Jones says he still hopes to add several Lynx Air planes to his fleet, even after their tentative merger fell through when Lynx shut down last month. In a phone interview, Jones said the Boeing 737 Max 8s are the same model that comprise the bulk of his 20-plane fleet … Read more

U.S. inflation up 0.3% in January, Fed still expected to cut interest rates this year

U.S. consumer prices increased more than expected in January amid rises in the costs of shelter and health care, but it likely won’t change expectations that the Federal Reserve will start cutting interest rates in the first half of 2024. The consumer price index (CPI) increased 0.3 per cent last month after gaining 0.2 per cent in December, … Read more