Bank of Canada Holds Rate Steady, Citing High Inflation Despite Slowing Economy
- Bank of Canada holds policy rate at 5% citing ongoing inflation concerns
- Governor says it's too early to consider rate cuts despite slowing economy
- Inflation eased to 2.9% in January but still above 2% target
- Risks remain including shipping disruptions, sticky underlying inflation
- Macklem hints rate cuts coming 2nd half of year but won't be as aggressive as hikes
