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Canada’s Jobless Rate Rises to 6.8% Despite December Hiring

          A employee sorts batteries on a conveyor belt at a recycling facility in Port Colborne, Ontario. Canada’s unemployment rate climbed to 6.8% in December , even though the economy added 8,200 jobs during the month. The increase in unemployment wasn’t driven by widespread layoffs but by a surge in the number of people entering the labour force and actively looking for work. December Highlights Unemployment rate: Up from 6.5% to 6.8% Employment: Net gain of 8,200 jobs Labour force: Expanded significantly, outpacing job creation Full-time work: Increased Part-time work: Declined Why the Rate Rose Economists point out that the rise in unemployment reflects renewed labour market participation , not a weakening economy. More Canadians felt confident enough to start job hunting, but hiring didn’t keep pace with the influx of job seekers. This marks the fourth straight month of employment growth , yet December also saw the largest increas...

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Global Stocks Head for Worst Week Since March Amid Central Bank Rate Hikes and Profit Warnings

Global Stocks Head for Worst Week Since March Amid Central Bank Rate Hikes and Profit Warnings




According to BNN Bloomberg, global stocks are heading for their worst week since March as worries about China and higher global interest rates. This has pushed up bond yields and heightened fears of recession. 

This downturn is reflective of the uncertainty prevailing in financial markets, with a combination of factors contributing to the downward spiral. Anxieties over the resurgence of COVID-19 variants, coupled with potential tapering of central bank stimulus measures and supply chain disruptions, have created a perfect storm of uncertainty, prompting investors to reevaluate their positions and adopt a more cautious approach.

The week's market performance has been characterized by sharp declines and wild swings, with major indices across the world experiencing significant losses. These fluctuations have underscored the delicate balance that currently exists between economic recovery and the challenges posed by ongoing global issues. As central banks grapple with the decision of when and how to reduce their monetary support, and as nations work to manage and mitigate the impact of pandemic-related disruptions, the markets remain in a state of heightened vulnerability. Investors are carefully monitoring economic data, public health developments, and policy decisions, all of which will play crucial roles in determining whether this downward trend will persist or if markets will regain their footing in the weeks to come.


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