Statistics Canada reported 53,600 new jobs in November, pushing the unemployment rate down to 6.5%. Economists had expected job losses, not gains — making this the third consecutive month of stronger-than-expected hiring.
But beneath the headline numbers, the story becomes more complicated — and more important for anyone planning a refinance, equity take-out, or new mortgage.
Why This Matters for Borrowers: No Near-Term Rate Cuts Expected
The stronger job data is pushing major economists to agree:
➡ The Bank of Canada is not likely to cut rates next week
➡ Further cuts in 2026 now look less likely
BMO’s Douglas Porter summarized it clearly:
“Good employment gains and the pullback in the unemployment rate seriously reduce the odds of any further cuts in 2026.”
For homeowners hoping for cheaper mortgage rates soon, this is a major signal:
Private lending and equity-based financing will continue to fill the gap while traditional lenders stay cautious.
The Hidden Weakness: Part-Time Jobs Are Driving the Growth
While the headline looks strong, economists warn that the composition of the gains looks soft:
Full-time jobs fell by 9,000
Part-time jobs jumped by 63,000
Participation rate dropped 0.2% — flattering the unemployment number
CIBC’s Andrew Grantham noted the data was “better than expected,” but not as strong as it appears.
Still — even with these weaknesses — the labour market is performing better than most predicted.
Youth Employment Rebounds After a Tough Year
One standout: 50,000 jobs were added for Canadians aged 15–24.
Youth unemployment dropped to 12.8%, a huge recovery from September’s post-2010 highs.
Economists suggest this may be linked to a slowdown in population growth, which temporarily eases hiring pressures.
For families and first-time buyers, this rebound helps confidence — but affordability remains strained, especially in Ontario.
Where Canada Is Hiring (and Firing)
Industries Adding Jobs:
Healthcare & social assistance: +46,000
Accommodation & food services: +14,000
Natural resources: +11,000
Industries Losing Jobs:
Wholesale & retail trade: –34,000 (almost reversing October’s gains)
Alberta Leads Gains — Ontario Flat
Regional job growth was strongest in:
Alberta: +29,000 jobs, unemployment down to 6.5%
New Brunswick & Manitoba: Moderate growth
Ontario and Quebec saw little net change, but Ontario’s unemployment rate dipped to 7.3% because fewer people searched for work.
For GTA households weighing debt consolidation, refinancing, or accessing equity, stagnant job creation combined with high interest rates keeps pressure on budgets.
Wages Are Rising — But Not Fast Enough
Average hourly wages climbed 3.6% year-over-year to $37, rising $1.27 since last November.
Wages are up — but not enough to offset inflation and higher borrowing costs.
This is exactly why many homeowners are turning to private, equity-based mortgage options for fast solutions.
What This Means for Homeowners in 2026
With a cooling economy but no immediate rate cuts expected:
Borrowers need flexible, equity-focused mortgage options:
✔ Consolidate high-interest debt
✔ Refinance to improve monthly cash flow
✔ Access equity for investments, renovations, or emergencies
✔ Get approved even with soft income or credit challenges
When banks say no, Lendworth says yes — based on your equity, not your credit.
📞 Call Lendworth Financial: 905-597-1225
🌐 Apply online at www.lendworth.ca
Thinking Ahead? Get Equity-Based Mortgage Advice Today
With economic uncertainty and slower rate cuts ahead, now is the time to:
Lock in a stable private mortgage
Refinance before pressure increases
Access equity without traditional income documentation
Prepare for 2026’s housing and rate environment
Lendworth specializes in fast approvals — often within 24 hours — across Ontario.
📞 Speak to a lending expert today: 905-597-1225
🌐 Visit: www.lendworth.ca