Chris Herhalt

Chris Herhalt is a journalist and communications professional with 10 years experience in print, digital media and content strategy.

Articles by Chris Herhalt

AimFinance aims for installment loans in 3 new provinces in 2024

AimFinance, a digital installment lender, is set to expand its loan offerings to borrowers outside of Ontario in 2024, aiming to enter Alberta, British Columbia, and Quebec. The company provides installment loans ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, primarily serving the “underbanked or unbanked” market segment.

Canadians think inflation is twice as high as it actually is, new BoC survey finds

Canadians perceive inflation to be double the actual rate, with young consumers estimating it even higher. Rising mortgage payments and increased food prices contribute to this perception, impacting consumer choices and leading to reduced spending as many anticipate a potential recession in the near future.

Trudeau Liberals deepen push into housing relief with 2023 Fall Economic Statement

The article discusses the Canadian federal government’s efforts, as outlined in the 2023 Fall Economic Statement, to address the ongoing housing affordability crisis in the country. Measures include incentivizing builders to increase housing supply, offering loans for rental housing construction, adjustments to vacant housing taxes, and changes to short-term rental regulations. These initiatives aim to tackle high housing prices and rents, though many are expected to take several years to yield significant results.

When are interest rates going down? And how did Canada get here?

The article explores the consequences of rising interest rates in Canada, leading to concerns among homeowners and businesses facing higher borrowing costs. Political leaders have criticized the Bank of Canada’s rate hikes, attributing increased inflation to these actions. Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem expressed concerns about inflation progress. Interest rates influence economic behavior and are tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Economists predict rates to stay at five percent until at least Q3 2024, with further increases in 2025.

Greener Homes Grants: making the most of new home energy retrofit programs

Canadian homeowners can access government programs for greener home retrofits, including interest-free loans of up to $40,000 over ten years (Canada Greener Homes Loan), grants of up to $5,000 (Canada Greener Homes Grant), and a 25% mortgage insurance premium reduction (CMHC Eco Plus). These retrofits help improve energy efficiency and can lead to significant long-term savings, with potential reductions of up to 78% in energy costs over ten years, making them a wise investment amid rising energy prices.

Armada Credit Group on equipment financing: borrow early to stay flexible

Businesses considering taking on additional debt due to increasing interest rates might be interested in equipment financing options. Instead of paying a substantial upfront sum, businesses can turn to lenders like Armada Credit Group to acquire equipment such as production lines, trucks, or heavy machinery. This approach can lead to quick productivity gains. Armada Credit Group, led by CEO Danny Lebovics, provides fixed-rate term financing for equipment, typically spanning 48 to 72 months for repayment.