Craig Alexander

In addressing the matter of a speculative housing bubble, the more important question to answer is: are these robust economic read more

In addressing the matter of a speculative housing bubble, the more important question to answer is: are these robust economic fundamentals in Vancouver strong enough to support such price gains? Based on a number of indicators, we still don't think so.

We estimate that only Winnipeg and the Atlantic are more affordable than Calgary and Edmonton, but only because home prices read more

We estimate that only Winnipeg and the Atlantic are more affordable than Calgary and Edmonton, but only because home prices in the former two are considerably cheaper than their Alberta counterparts.

In contrast to Central and Eastern Canada, housing conditions in Western Canada remain very tight and are showing increased signs read more

In contrast to Central and Eastern Canada, housing conditions in Western Canada remain very tight and are showing increased signs of speculation. When economic conditions are booming, it can also create the perfect breeding ground for speculative price bubbles to form. That's because in such an environment, housing market participants are at greater risk of developing a case of irrational exuberance, especially if they expect that such exorbitant price gains will continue indefinitely.

The odds clearly favor the Bank of Canada raising the overnight rate by a quarter point on May 24 to read more

The odds clearly favor the Bank of Canada raising the overnight rate by a quarter point on May 24 to 4.25 percent.

It is one of the hardest things to forecast. So, get used to it.

It is one of the hardest things to forecast. So, get used to it.