The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, Jan. 17, edition that predictions for Alberta's growth have been dialled back. A Globe editorial notes Scotiabank this week forecast 2020 growth of 1.6 per cent. The weakening outlook for Alberta's oil has a lot to do with that. The price of a barrel of Alberta's heavy oil has again fallen below the benchmark American price. The discount has historically averaged less than $15 (U.S.) a barrel, but now rests at $25 (U.S.). Stifel FirstEnergy predicts a discount averaging $19 (U.S.) this year. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said he could boost the economy with corporate tax cuts, which so far has had mixed results. Canadian Natural Resources in December said it would increase 2020 capital spending by $250-million (Canadian) to $4.05-billion (Canadian) because of loosened drilling limits and the tax cut. CNRL, however, has also booked a $1.6-billion (Canadian) gain from the tax cut, far more than it is putting back into the economy. Alberta produces a lot more oil than it did in the recent past, and growing output is slamming up against delays in additional pipeline infrastructure. Rail capacity can help, but new pipes are the best way to end the squeeze.