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Weekly Market Snapshot: Mideast Tensions and Chip Selloff Rattle Global Markets (July 13–17)

  Week of July 13–17, 2026 It was a rough week to be a tech investor and a good week to own oil. Escalating conflict between the US and Iran pushed crude sharply higher and rattled global markets, while a fresh wave of selling in semiconductor stocks dragged US and Asian indices lower. Closer to home, the Bank of Canada held its key rate steady, and the TSX—less exposed to chipmakers—held up noticeably better than its US and Asian peers. Here’s how the week broke down across every major market, and what it means for your wallet. 🇨🇦 Canada: TSX Day Close Change Mon, Jul 13 35,252.72 -0.15% Wed, Jul 15 (BoC day) 35,416.20 +0.27% Thu, Jul 16 35,340.15 -0.21% Fri, Jul 17 ~35,262 -0.22% Week total (Fri-to-Fri) — ~flat (about -0.1%) The TSX had a choppy but ultimately quiet week compared with its global peers. Monday's session opened with the Strait of Hormuz blockade headlines and closed lower. Wednesday brought a relief rally after the Bank of Canada's rate hold, with financials ...

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How to get 5% interest on your money – with a catch


                             

If you are looking for a safe and guaranteed way to grow your money, you might want to consider investing in a guaranteed investment certificate (GIC). A GIC is a type of deposit account that pays a fixed rate of interest for a specified term. You can choose from various terms, ranging from a few months to several years, and you can lock in your rate at the time of purchase.

GICs are ideal for conservative investors who want to preserve their capital and earn a predictable return. They are also suitable for short-term goals, such as saving for a vacation or a down payment on a house. GICs are insured by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) up to $100,000 per depositor per institution, so you don't have to worry about losing your money if your bank fails.

But what if you could get a higher rate of interest than the average savings account or bond? That's where the 5 per cent GICs come in. These are special offers that some financial institutions are making to attract new customers or retain existing ones. They are usually available for a limited time and for a limited amount of money, so you have to act fast if you want to take advantage of them.

Even the big banks are jumping on the bandwagon and offering 5 per cent GICs to their customers. For example, RBC is offering a 5 per cent GIC for a 3-month term, TD is offering a 5 per cent GIC for a 9-month term, and BMO is offering a 5 per cent GIC for a 12-month term. These are some of the highest rates you can find in the market right now, and they are much higher than the inflation rate, which is around 2 per cent.

Of course, there are some catches to these deals. First, you have to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a minimum balance in your account or opening a new account with the bank. Second, you have to invest a minimum amount of money, which can range from $500 to $10,000 depending on the bank. Third, you have to agree to keep your money in the GIC until maturity, otherwise you will lose the interest or pay a penalty. And fourth, you have to pay taxes on the interest income at your marginal tax rate.

So, before you jump on the 5 per cent GIC bandwagon, make sure you do your homework and compare different options. You might find that some online banks or credit unions offer better rates or more flexibility than the big banks. You might also want to diversify your portfolio and invest in other products, such as stocks or mutual funds, that can offer higher returns over the long term. And remember, always invest within your risk tolerance and financial goals.


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