Economic Perspectives
Canada’s economy is at a crossroads, shaped by rapid technological change, shifting labour markets, evolving trade policies, and demographic trends.
Economic Perspectives explores these forces and their implications for growth, productivity, and prosperity. From housing affordability and immigration policy to AI, friendshoring, and labour market dynamics, this series provides forward-looking insights to help economists, policy-makers, and business leaders navigate uncertainty and identify strategic opportunities.
Page updated: January 9, 2026
Recent releases
Most of the reports in this series are free (paid reports are listed with their price). Explore the full library to deepen your understanding of Canada’s evolving economy and respond strategically.
Considering Development Charges in Canada’s Housing Market
March 12, 2025 • 15-min read
Rapid population growth and a shrinking household size have fuelled strong housing demand growth. Estimates of the additional dwellings required to improve housing affordability run into the millions. This situation has sparked a spirited debate about how to finance associated infrastructure, like roads, waterworks, libraries, and parks.
Shift in Immigration Policy Goes Too Far
December 6, 2024 • 8-min read • $195
Canada’s population saw an unprecedented surge in 2023 and 2024, largely due to an influx of non-permanent residents, including temporary foreign workers, international students, and refugees. These non-permanent residents are counted in the population and, with work permits, actively participate in the labour force.
Cracking the Productivity Code: Charting a New Path to Prosperity
June 6, 2024 • 34-min read
Productivity is headline news given that labour productivity is the key driver of Canada’s long-term prosperity. Labour productivity growth slowed markedly in the years prior to the pandemic. In 2020, it spiked because pandemic closures shut down mostly lower-pay jobs, but as the economy reopened and normalized, productivity fell sharply.
Canada’s Housing Affordability Challenge: Plenty of Questions, Some Answers
January 29, 2024 • 16-min read
Population pressures exacerbated already strong residential demand. This demand was driven by a prolonged period of low interest rates implemented following the 2009 financial crisis, and an accumulation of excess savings during the pandemic. With people unable to spend on many services, and many forced to work from home, investment in larger and better living spaces surged.
Key Areas of Focus
Economic Perspectives includes research and analysis on:
Housing markets and affordability
Analysis of development charges, supply constraints, and policy options shaping Canada’s housing landscape.
Labour market dynamics
Insights into labour markets, wage policies, and workforce shifts that influence businesses and communities.
Trade and supply chains
Evaluation of friendshoring strategies and how global trade shifts affect Canadian businesses.
Technology and innovation
Examination of AI, digital tools, and other innovations transforming productivity and economic outcomes.
Regional growth and inequality
Exploration of economic opportunities and challenges in smaller cities and vulnerable populations.
Economic risk assessment
Forward-looking analysis of recession risks, inflation trends, and post-pandemic recovery.
The Economic Perspectives series has been produced since June 2022.
Methodology
The research in this series employs a range of methodologies to analyze complex economic challenges:
- Quantitative analysis
Uses statistical models and economic indicators to assess trends in productivity, housing, wages, and employment. - Policy evaluation
Examines the potential impacts of changes in immigration, trade, or fiscal policy under various scenarios. - Technological impact assessment
Evaluates how innovations such as AI and digital tools reshape productivity, labour markets, and economic growth. - Regional and sectoral analysis
Explores how local economies, smaller cities, and specific industries respond to structural shifts. - Evidence-based insights
Provides usable recommendations to inform strategic decision-making for governments, institutions, and businesses seeking inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Where leaders turn when faced with Canada’s toughest problems.
Our subscriptions deliver key intelligence to your fingertips so you can act on critical opportunities with confidence.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the Economic Perspectives, or about becoming a subscriber, please contact us.