There is no rest for the wicked as December begins with a vivacious tone. There is so much happening, I can only start by telling you about my successful “Pasta Fest”.  It took a lot of effort but there is no better feeling than to put one’s words into action and make it happen. I took the time to learn with the assistance of my Master Momma, how to make her Lasagna. Then the previous Friday morning I prepared the sauces for that evening as my High school graduation class of 84, enjoyed the food and my amazing playlist.

With a little sisterly love, a grazing table was also created for all to enjoy, knowing that on April 1st, 2025 a Carbon Tax of 19% will be applied to all our food. I only encourage you to learn how to cook and prepare your meals because if the direction of this country doesn’t change quickly, many will be eating from dumpsters rather than food banks. 

Speaking of the costs of living being out of control, In Canada, dismal economic data is the result, can it get any uglier?  The worst is yet to come even after the Canadian Unemployment Rate rose significantly to 6.8% vs expected (6.6%). We are in the stretch run before a large portion of mortgage renewals come due and this increase in the unemployment rate forced the Bank of Canada (BOC) to lower rates by 0.50 basis points this morning, once again. As a result, the bank rate stands at 3.25%. 

Keep in mind, that inflation is simply a measurement from one period to the next. Many of the products purchased still haven’t been reduced, that is unless they are close to their expiry date. Coupled with proposed tariffs coming to Canada because of incompetent government and their stifling policies, a tax holiday has been proposed along with a bribe of C$250/person from the coffers of taxpayer funds for the next two months. 

Unfortunately, we live in a world of instant gratification. There is no such thing as saving to purchase. Regardless of the consequences, the availability of credit facilities allows individuals to buy without regard as individuals avoid pain at all costs. They might end up selling their soul to the facilitator, usually at ridiculously high rates, north of 20%, virtually remaining a debt slave for life. 

The markets await anxiously on the Europeans’ next interest rate cut, conservatively looking at a 0.25% decrease. But if I were a betting man, a 0.50% cut would be more appropriate. 

The focus is now on the American Consumer Price Index (CPI), another measurement of inflation. The expectations are for a sharp increase toward the 3.3% level vs the previous (2.7%), Nonetheless, the beat goes on as ADP Employment, a measurement of Private Sector employment rose by 146k vs forecast (150k) in November. Meanwhile, Non-Farm Payrolls were much higher at 227k vs expected (200k). The American unemployment rate also ticked up to 4.2% from (4.1%). 

The Federal Reserve might also be more aggressive in lowering rates on December 18th, which will also add fuel to the fire in an already tense relationship with President Trump. The Fed is supposed to act independently for the betterment of the economy but they are the ones that always profit regardless of the decisions they make. 

Consequently, Global tensions rise in the Middle East as Fanatics continue to seek the annihilation of humanity for their obscene sense of righteousness. In actuality, the world should be exterminating their sick ideologies for the betterment of peace. Sadly, when there is profit in war, these conflicts will only continue to proliferate.

The USD Index remains firm above the 106.50 level. Precious Metals rise as Global tensions heighten, Gold pushes well above the USD$2700/oz level and Silver in the USD$32/oz vicinity.  On the other hand, Oil rises above the USD$69.50/B level, keeping the CAD$ from falling further. The CAD$ has been sinking fast below the 0.71 cent level, looking for a preserver.