High-Interest Rates Due to Labor Market and Services Prices
In the previous month, the Bank of Canada kept its key overnight interest rate at 4.50%. The bank noted that rates must remain high due to wage pressure in a tight labor market and persistent service prices.
Baseline Scenario and Potential Inflation Challenges
The bank's baseline scenario predicts a softening labor market as growth slows, reducing wage pressure and business price-setting behavior. However, Macklem acknowledged the risk of inflation remaining above the 2% target if adjustments stall.
Further Rate Hikes in Response to Entrenched Inflation
According to Governor Macklem, if the Bank of Canada sees signs of inflation becoming entrenched above 2%, it is prepared to raise interest rates further.
Inflation Expectations and Economic Growth
The bank anticipates inflation falling to 3% this summer as the economy continues modest growth, followed by a slower and more uncertain decline to 2% by the end of 2024.
LATEST: Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem has stated that for inflation to reach the 2% target, the labor market needs to rebalance, corporate pricing behaviour needs to normalize and near-term inflation expectations need to come down further.
— Paryte (@Parytecom) May 4, 2023
Addressing Global Financial Instability Risks
Macklem also discussed the potential impact of recent financial instability in the U.S. and Europe on Canada. While market stress has had a muted effect, more significant spillover effects could occur if global financial stress proves pervasive.
Tools to Provide Liquidity in Severe Stress Situations
The Bank of Canada has tools to provide liquidity and restore price stability if more severe financial stress emerges in the country, Macklem reassured.
