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Inflation Drops in South Africa, Slows in Canada

3/19/2026

38 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

South Africa's inflation fell to 3% in February 2026, the lowest since June 2025, with transportation prices down 2.1% and food and beverages up 3.7%.
Canada's inflation slowed to 1.8% in February 2026, aided by lower energy prices and a base-year effect.
British Columbia experienced a 9.6% rise in gasoline prices.
The Bank of Canada will decide on March 18, 2026, with the policy rate at 2.25%.

History

Historical Context

The Great Inflation in the U.S. peaked at 13.5% in 1980, driven by oil price shocks and aggressive monetary policies under Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, who raised interest rates to 20%. This period of stagflation influenced global economies, including Canada and South Africa, as central banks today continue to navigate inflationary pressures while striving for economic growth.

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Story summary

South Africa's inflation fell to 3% in February 2026, the lowest since June 2025, with transportation prices down 2.1% and food and beverages up 3.7%.
Canada's inflation slowed to 1.8% in February 2026, aided by lower energy prices and a base-year effect.
British Columbia experienced a 9.6% rise in gasoline prices.
The Bank of Canada will decide on March 18, 2026, with the policy rate at 2.25%.

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