A cyclist rides past the Bank of Canada building in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada May 8, 2025.
The Bank of Canada interest rate announcement is set for Wednesday, September 17, 2025. The decision on the target for the overnight rate will be revealed at 9:45 a.m. (ET). A press release will accompany the announcement, providing a brief explanation of the move.
This update is highly anticipated as businesses, investors, and households look for signals on the Bank’s monetary policy direction.
Journalists Invited to Secure Lock-Up Session
Before the official release, accredited journalists will have early access to the Bank of Canada interest rate announcement materials. A secure lock-up session will be held at the Bank’s head office in Ottawa.
Starting at 8:00 a.m. (ET), reporters can review the press release under embargo. Access is strictly through the Bank of Canada Museum entrance at 30 Bank Street, at the corner of Bank and Wellington. Attendees must bring valid photo identification.
For security purposes, journalists are required to confirm attendance with Media Relations no later than noon (ET) on Tuesday, September 16. Unregistered media representatives will not be permitted. The embargo will lift at 9:45 a.m. (ET), when the rate decision goes public.
Distribution of the Rate Announcement
Once the embargo ends, the official Bank of Canada interest rate announcement press release will be published on the Bank’s website. Canadians, analysts, and international observers can then access the information simultaneously.
This process ensures equal access to the policy update, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to transparency and fairness in communication.
Press Conference with Senior Leaders
Following the rate announcement, Governor Tiff Macklem and Senior Deputy Governor Carolyn Rogers will address the media. The press conference is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. (ET) in the Bank of Canada’s auditorium.
An opening statement, prepared by the Governor, will be posted online at 9:45 a.m. (ET), ensuring the public has access to the remarks before the conference begins.
As with the lock-up, all journalists must register in advance with Media Relations to attend. The deadline for registration is 5:00 p.m. (ET) on Tuesday, September 16. Without registration, entry will not be granted. All attendees must use the Museum entrance and present photo identification upon arrival.
Technical Set-Up and Remote Access
Broadcasters who need to prepare equipment for coverage will be allowed to begin set-up at 9:45 a.m. (ET), right after the embargo lifts. This arrangement gives media teams adequate time before the press conference.
For those unable to attend in person, the Bank has made provisions for remote participation. Accredited journalists can request connection details from Media Relations to join virtually.
Live Webcast for Public Access
The Bank of Canada interest rate announcement press conference will also be webcast live on the Bank’s official website. Both audio and video streams will be available for the public, ensuring accessibility for Canadians and international audiences alike.
This online option allows businesses, investors, and households to follow the Bank’s explanations and guidance in real time.
Why This Announcement Matters
The Bank of Canada interest rate announcement has a direct impact on borrowing costs, mortgages, and business investments. A change in the overnight rate can influence economic growth, inflation, and consumer spending across the country.
With global uncertainty and inflation trends in focus, markets will closely monitor the Bank’s tone and future guidance. The September 17 decision is expected to provide crucial insights into Canada’s monetary policy path in the months ahead.
