July 28, 2022
Consult these brief articles explaining topics related to our core functions.
June 6, 2022
QE is a tool that encourages spending and investment—helping us to achieve our inflation target by stabilizing the economy.
Understanding quantitative easing
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Inflation targets,
Monetary policy
April 13, 2022
At the heart of the Bank of Canada’s monetary policy is the target for the overnight rate. See what it is—and what it means for you.
Understanding our policy interest rate
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Monetary policy
December 24, 2021
The output gap is the difference between what an economy actually produces and what it would produce in an ideal world.
Understanding the output gap
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Productivity
December 24, 2021
High productivity helps raise our standard of living and keep our economy competitive.
Understanding productivity
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Productivity
May 19, 2021
The consumer price index (CPI) tracks how much the average Canadian household spends, and how that changes over time. At the Bank of Canada, we use it to target inflation.
Understanding the consumer price index
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Inflation and prices,
Inflation targets
April 5, 2021
It takes time for our policy decisions to filter—or be transmitted—through the economy and financial system.
Understanding how monetary policy works
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Monetary policy
August 13, 2020
At the Bank of Canada, we aim to keep inflation close to 2 percent.
Understanding inflation targeting
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Inflation and prices,
Inflation targets
August 13, 2020
Inflation is a persistent rise in the average level of prices over time.
Understanding inflation
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Inflation and prices,
Inflation: costs and benefits
August 13, 2020
The foreign exchange market determines how much the Canadian dollar is worth. At the Bank of Canada, we very rarely intervene to support its value.
Understanding exchange rates
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Exchange rates
January 31, 2020
Here's what money does—and how we’re handling it in the digital age.
Understanding money in the 21st century
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Bank notes,
Digital currencies and fintech
March 3, 2014
Highlights the value of ‘prudent’ borrowing in enhancing welfare, but also the risks of over-indebtedness for households, the economy and financial stability. Discusses trends in household debt, various debt metrics and why monetary policy is concerned with how households use borrowed funds.
Household Spending and Debt
Content Type(s):
Explainers
Topic(s):
Financial stability