The Canadian economy slowed to 0.1% in the fourth quarter of 2019, owing to a decrease in business investment and weak trade. Offsetting these declines were increased household spending. GDP growth ended 2019 with 1.6 per cent, a deceleration from the 2 per cent growth reported in 2018. 

We expect growth in the Canadian economy to continue to slow in the first part of 2020, as temporary factors (CN rail strike and COVID-19) and permanent factors (auto plant shutdowns) work their way through the economy.  

Copyright British Columbia Real Estate Association. Reprinted with permission.