The Decibel

Matt Lundy, an economics reporter for The Globe, delves into Canada's recent decision to cut back on temporary foreign workers. He highlights a dramatic increase in foreign worker permits and the government's aim to reverse these pandemic-era changes. Lundy discusses the implications for businesses, especially those that rely on low-wage labor, and raises concerns about workers' rights amidst stricter regulations. Additionally, he examines how this decision intertwines with broader immigration policy shifts and the ongoing debates about economic growth in Canada.

Tim Kiladze, a financial reporter and columnist for the Globe, delves into TD Bank's recent troubles. He discusses the bank's unprecedented quarterly loss linked to hefty fines over anti-money laundering failures. The conversation reveals how a once-reputable bank has faced a cultural shift, leadership turmoil, and growing regulatory scrutiny. Kiladze highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in restoring investor trust, and he explores TD's strategies to navigate its current challenges in the competitive market.

Bruce Curran, an associate professor of law at the University of Manitoba, sheds light on the ongoing railway labor dispute between major Canadian railways and the Teamsters union. He discusses the federal government's intervention and the immediate halt of freight services. The conversation delves into the significant economic repercussions, particularly for farmers reliant on rail transport. Additionally, Curran highlights worker fatigue and safety concerns, revealing how these issues remain inadequately addressed amid negotiations.

In this engaging discussion, Erica Alini, a personal finance reporter specializing in the impact of inflation on pensions and benefits, sheds light on pressing financial concerns. She explains how inflation indexing affects the purchasing power of pensions and benefits, revealing troubling trends in their adequacy. The conversation also delves into how rising costs impact workplace health benefits and the struggles faced by individuals relying on disability payments. Alini highlights the stagnation of government pensions like OAS and CPP amidst inflation, urging listeners to stay informed.

Ben Kaplan is the general manager of iRun Magazine and Allison Hill is the co-founder of Hill Run Club. They discuss the explosive growth of running, especially after the pandemic, emphasizing its inclusivity and appeal to diverse communities. Tales of camaraderie highlight how running has become a social outlet. The conversation explores marathon culture, detailing the journey towards greater participation, particularly among women. They also touch on the therapeutic benefits of running and initiatives to empower marginalized groups within the running community.

Join Globe reporters Mariya Postelnyak and Colin Freeze as they delve into the dark world of fraudster Arash Missaghi, who eluded justice for years while scamming millions. Listen to the shocking details of how Missaghi's deceit impacted victims like Alan Kats, leading to tragic outcomes. The discussion uncovers the complexities of pursuing fraud cases in Canada and the failures within the legal system that allowed such criminals to thrive. This captivating narrative reveals a web of deceit, crime, and unexpected consequences.

In this engaging discussion, Barry Hertz, film editor at The Globe and Mail, explores the evolving landscape of movie theaters. He reveals how options like 4DX and ScreenX are reshaping the cinema experience, enticing viewers with immersive formats. Hertz also discusses the financial struggles of major chains and the shift towards Premium Large Format screenings. With streaming services on the rise, he sheds light on the industry's challenges and what the future holds for cinema lovers.

A recent investigation by the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab has unveiled an elaborate phishing campaign linked to Russian hackers. They discovered the 'River of Phish' scheme, targeting high-profile individuals like a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine. The podcast dives into the sophisticated tactics used by the Cold River group and their ties to Russian intelligence. It emphasizes the ongoing risks of state-sponsored cyber attacks and provides insights into evolving threats in the realm of digital espionage.

In this discussion, Rachelle Younglai, a real estate reporter for The Globe and Mail, unpacks Toronto's condo market, which is facing a 27-year low in sales. She highlights the alarming rise in developer insolvencies and how pre-construction sales are becoming increasingly scarce, potentially driving housing affordability to new lows. Rachelle explores the financial mechanics behind condo developments and the overwhelming challenges posed by rising costs, delays, and an oversupply of properties, raising crucial questions about the future of Canadian housing.

Oliver Moore, an urban affairs reporter, discusses the surprising scarcity of public toilets in Canada. With only 18 toilets per 100,000 people, he highlights the challenges faced by residents and tourists alike. The pandemic exacerbated access issues, creating a two-tier system. Moore emphasizes the need for cleaner, universally accessible facilities and innovative solutions to urban mobility. His insights also touch on historical perspectives and unique initiatives, like Winnipeg's project to aid vulnerable communities.