WATCH: The prime minister got a big reality check on his long-standing promise to deliver a budget surplus, as a leading economist says that’s not likely because of falling oil prices. Tom Clark discusses what the means for Stephen Harper heading towards and election.
OTTAWA – One of Canada’s biggest banks says sliding oil prices could turn the federal government’s promised 2015-16 surplus into a deficit.
A report by TD Bank is projecting Ottawa to run a $2.3-billion shortfall next fiscal year rather than the $1.6-billion surplus predicted by the government in November – before oil prices fell further.
The bank also says the government’s $4.3-billion surplus projection for 2016-17 is on track to become a $600-million deficit unless new revenue-generating or cost-cutting measures are introduced.
READ MORE: Oil dips below $45 as OPEC signals no cuts
TD, however, says the deficit estimates are still smaller than the government’s $3-billion reserve set aside for contingencies – which would help keep Ottawa in surplus territory.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper has promised his government will balance the books in 2015-16 despite tumbling oil prices.
The Bank of Canada is scheduled to address the economic impact of falling oil prices in a speech by deputy governor Timothy Lane.
- What is a halal mortgage? How interest-free home financing works in Canada
- Capital gains changes are ‘really fair,’ Freeland says, as doctors cry foul
- Budget 2024 failed to spark ‘political reboot’ for Liberals, polling suggests
- Tesla’s net income drops 55% in first quarter amid falling global sales
Comments