Investing in Canada’s Future: A Costly Endeavour—Our Analysis of the 2025 Federal Budget
The federal government’s 2025 budget shifts gears to a focus on capital spending, away from the Trudeau-era’s prioritization on social programs. This focus is reflected across a wide range of direct investments through the new Major Projects Office and tax incentives aimed at spurring business investment. (Lire en français.)
The Future is Now: Innovation in Budget 2025
The innovation agenda in the 2025 budget is incremental at most, leveraging and rebranding programs such as the Venture “and Growth” Capital Catalyst Initiative and Strategic Response Fund, as well as extending funding for existing supports. Though it introduces new strategic vehicles for investment in key emerging technology sectors, like quantum, AI, and life sciences, it lacks an overall strategic direction to nurture homegrown firms and ecosystems.
ROI of Higher Education: November 2025
There are notable differences in the general operating expenses associated with delivering academic programs across Canadian colleges and universities. These costs reflect the resources, equipment, facilities, and staffing required to deliver programs, and they vary widely depending on the field of study.
Featured Insights
Trick, No Treat: Canadian Economy Shrinks in August
Canadian Economics October 31, 2025
Canada’s real GDP declined by 0.3 per cent in August, marking fourth decrease in five months. Even with interest rate cuts, overall growth in the final half of the year is expected to be meagre.
Quick take • 3-min read
Viktor Cicman
AI on the Horizon: October 30, 2025 Update
Canadian Economics October 30, 2025
Canada’s latest AI news on the economy, society, and policy. In this issue, we examine the implications of AI energy consumption. Canada’s abundant water, energy and land are being eyed by technology giants to deploy AI infrastructure, raising concerns about environmental impact, and long-term economic prosperity.
Quick take • 3-min read
Graham Dobbs, James Lannigan
Bank of Canada Cuts Policy Rate as Economy Continues to Adapt to Trade Shock
Canadian Economics October 29, 2025
With trade disruptions weighing on growth and inflation expected to ease, the Bank of Canada has lowered its policy rate to 2.25 per cent. The move reflects a cautious but proactive stance as the economy undergoes structural adjustment.
Quick take • 2-min read
Walter Bolduc
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