Canada's Big Six banks have all increased their benchmark fixed-rate mortgage rate, which analysts say could trigger a rise in the Bank of Canada's qualifying mortgage rate as early as Wednesday, making it more difficult for some to take on home loans.

The move comes as many economists are predicting that the Bank of Canada may raise its key interest rate target next week

A step-by-step look at how Canada's economy could fall apart, according to the Bank of Canada.

OTTAWA – Finance Minister Jim Flaherty is coming under fire for using his position to pressure a private sector mortgage lender to raise its interest rates. “That’s Banana Republic behaviour,” said NDP Leader Tom Mulcair, who added the minister has no business interfering with the free marketplace. Liberal interim leader Bob Rae called the minister’s...