Will the feds' stimulus plan actually help the economy?
Nov 26, 2024
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In a riveting conversation with Cormac Mac Sweeney, Kevin Page, former Parliamentary Budget Officer and current President of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy at the University of Ottawa, delves into the federal government's recent stimulus measures. They debate whether the two-month GST holiday and one-time rebate will provide genuine relief or merely serve as political maneuvers. Page examines the potential impact on inflation, demand, and the economy while questioning the overall effectiveness for vulnerable populations as the holiday season approaches.
The Canadian government's temporary GST holiday aims to alleviate financial strain on families during the holiday season by reducing costs on essentials.
Critics argue that while the relief measures provide immediate benefits, they may exacerbate long-term inflationary pressures and economic instability.
Deep dives
Government Response to Holiday Financial Strains
The Canadian government is addressing financial pressures faced by citizens during the holiday season by implementing a temporary tax holiday. Starting December 14th, the GST or HST will be eliminated on essential goods such as groceries, children's clothing, toys, and alcohol. This initiative aims to provide relief for families who must balance holiday expenses while dealing with rising costs of living. Alongside this, a one-time rebate of $250 will be distributed to Canadians with a net income below $150,000, further alleviating financial burdens during the festive period.
Political Implications of Tax Cuts and Rebate
The recent tax cuts and rebate have been interpreted as a political maneuver to boost the government's popularity ahead of the upcoming election. Analysts believe this decision is driven more by political need than sound economic policy, particularly given the Liberal government's struggles in polls. The initiative attempts to connect with citizens feeling the strain of affordability issues, but skepticism remains regarding its effectiveness. Critics argue that the temporary nature of these measures may not significantly address long-term economic challenges, especially in light of increasing national debt levels.
Potential Economic Impact of GST Cuts
While the GST holiday and rebate are designed to provide immediate economic relief, there are concerns about possible inflationary effects. Increased consumption driven by these measures could exacerbate the current cost of living crisis, raising prices in an already strained economic environment. Additionally, experts caution that it may hinder efforts to lower interest rates, which are crucial for long-term stability. Balancing fiscal stimulus without compromising inflation control remains a significant challenge for policymakers as they navigate these economic pressures.
The holidays are coming and times are tough. We're digging into whether the federal government's 2 month GST holiday and upcoming rebate will actually help the economy and your family.
Host Cormac Mac Sweeney is in conversation with Kevin Page, former Parliamentary budget officer and current President of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy at the University of Ottawa.
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