Release of the Monetary Policy Report - Press conference by Governor Stephen S. Poloz and Senior Deputy Governor Carolyn A. Wilkins. (10:30 (ET) approx.).
The Bank of Canada today maintained its target for the overnight rate at ¼ percent, which the Bank considers its effective lower bound. The Bank Rate is correspondingly ½ percent and the deposit rate is ¼ percent. The Bank also announced new measures to provide additional support to Canada’s financial system.
This unscheduled rate decision brings the policy rate to its effective lower bound, to provide support to the Canadian financial system and to the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Bank of Canada today lowered its target for the overnight rate by 50 basis points to ¼ percent. The Bank Rate is correspondingly ½ percent and the deposit rate is ¼ percent. This unscheduled rate decision brings the policy rate to its effective lower bound and is intended to provide support to the Canadian financial system and the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Bank of Canada today announced that it has completed arrangements for all employees to telework until further notice to protect the health of our staff and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
The Bank of Canada has been working hard to ensure the financial system has sufficient liquidity so that credit continues to be available to businesses and households.
The Bank of Canada today lowered its target for the overnight rate by 50 basis points to ¾ percent, effective Monday, March 16, 2020. The Bank Rate is correspondingly 1 percent and the deposit rate is ½ percent. This unscheduled rate decision is a proactive measure taken in light of the negative shocks to Canada’s economy arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent sharp drop in oil prices.
The Bank of Canada is contributing to the collective effort to support the Canadian economy and financial system, and to ensure credit channels remain open.