National Business

WASHINGTON — The Federal Reserve foresees the economy accelerating quickly this year yet still expects to keep its benchmark interest rate pinned near zero through 2023, despite concerns in financial markets about potentially higher inflation.

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index hit 19,000 points for the first time Wednesday on a supportive outlook by the U.S. Federal Reserve. The S&P/TSX composite index erased morning losses to close up 109.09 points to 18,983.

CALGARY — The Alberta Energy Regulator says it is directing the Orphan Well Association and working interest partners of Mojek Resources Inc.

OTTAWA — The country's annual inflation rate hit a pandemic-era high of 1.1 per cent last month, driven by a rise in gasoline prices that suggests an economic recovery is on the horizon.

A Saskatchewan condo corporation has purchased thousands of dollars worth of bitcoin in hopes of eventually eliminating fees for residents, but experts say such cryptocurrency investments come with risks. Regina-based Thornton Place Condominium Corp.

SURREY, B.C. — Natural gas supplier FortisBC says prices won't change for at least another three months, but other charges such as the provincial carbon tax still have the potential to increase the customer's bill.

TORONTO — If you've noticed gas prices on the rise, you aren't alone: Statistics Canada says gasoline prices rose 6.5 per cent in February compared with January, marking the third month in a row of climbing prices at the pump.

FRANKFURT — German automaker BMW said Wednesday it intends to speed the rollout of new electric cars, vowing to bring battery-powered models to 50% of global sales by 2030.

BERLIN — The German economy — Europe's biggest — will grow by 3.1% this year, the government’s panel of independent economic advisers forecast on Wednesday, cutting its previous prediction somewhat.

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Amazon is making its first foray into providing health care services, announcing Wednesday that it will be offering its Amazon Care telemedicine program to employers nationwide.