Mark your calendars, because January 19, 2026, is set to reveal crucial insights into Canada’s economic pulse—but here’s where it gets intriguing: how will businesses and consumers really feel about the future? On that Monday, the Bank of Canada will unveil the fourth quarter issues of two highly anticipated reports: the Business Outlook Survey and the Canadian Survey of Consumer Expectations. These documents are more than just numbers; they’re a window into the hopes, fears, and predictions shaping Canada’s economic landscape. And this is the part most people miss: the surveys often highlight contrasting perspectives between businesses and consumers, sparking debates about where the economy is truly headed.
Event Details:
Time: 10:30 AM (Eastern Time) – the moment these reports go live, potentially shifting market conversations.
Lock-Up for Journalists: Starting at 9:00 AM (ET), media representatives are invited to a unique opportunity: an early, embargoed review of both surveys at the Bank’s Ottawa headquarters. Access is through the Bank of Canada Museum entrance at 30 Bank Street (corner of Bank and Wellington). Important note: Photo ID is mandatory, and registration is non-negotiable. Journalists must confirm their attendance by contacting Media Relations (https://www.bankofcanada.ca/press/contacts/) before noon (ET) on January 16, 2026. Unregistered attendees will be turned away—no exceptions. The lock-up ends, and the embargo lifts, at 10:30 AM (ET).
Distribution: Both surveys will be publicly available on the Bank’s website (https://www.bankofcanada.ca/publications/bos/ for the Business Outlook Survey and https://www.bankofcanada.ca/publications/canadian-survey-of-consumer-expectations/ for the Consumer Expectations Survey) at 10:30 AM (ET). No media briefings, webcasts, or availability sessions are scheduled, making the reports themselves the star of the show.
Why This Matters: These surveys aren’t just for economists—they’re for anyone curious about Canada’s financial future. The Business Outlook Survey gauges how companies feel about sales, hiring, and investments, while the Consumer Expectations Survey reveals what everyday Canadians think about inflation, spending, and job security. But here’s the controversial question: If businesses are optimistic but consumers are cautious, who’s right? And what does that mean for the economy in 2026? We’re not taking sides, but we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. For more details, reach out to Media Relations (https://www.bankofcanada.ca/press/contacts/). Let the economic debate begin!
