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Statistics Canada Begins Major Workforce Overhaul, Cutting 850 Positions

    Statistics Canada says it will be cutting around 850 of its staff along with 12 per cent of its executive team. Statistics Canada is moving ahead with a major restructuring that will see roughly 850 jobs eliminated , including a portion of its executive ranks. The agency confirmed that it has entered a formal workforce adjustment period, with affected employees set to receive notices over the next two weeks. The cuts are part of a broader federal initiative to reduce public service spending. With more than 7,200 employees as of early 2025, Statistics Canada is among several departments facing significant downsizing as the government seeks long‑term budget efficiencies. Union representatives have raised concerns about the impact on the agency’s ability to maintain the quality and timeliness of national data. Management, however, has emphasized that voluntary departures and early retirement incentives will be used where possible to ease the transition. The announcement m...
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Stock Markets Today: How the Middle East Crisis Boosts the Stock Market

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has sent oil prices soaring, which in turn has boosted the stock market. Investors are betting on higher demand for energy and commodities, as well as increased spending on defense and security. Here are some of the key factors that are driving the market rally:


- Oil prices have surged to their highest level since 2014, as the threat of supply disruptions looms over the region. The US benchmark, West Texas Intermediate, rose above $90 a barrel on Monday, while the global benchmark, Brent crude, topped $100 a barrel.

- Energy stocks have been among the biggest winners, as higher oil prices translate into higher profits for oil producers and refiners. The S&P 500 energy sector gained 3.2% on Monday, outperforming the broader index, which rose 1.3%.

- Other commodity-related stocks have also benefited from the rising tensions, as investors expect higher demand for metals, minerals and agricultural products. The S&P 500 materials sector rose 2.4% on Monday, while the industrials sector added 1.9%.

- Defense and security stocks have also seen a boost, as the conflict increases the need for military equipment and services. The S&P 500 aerospace and defense industry group climbed 2.1% on Monday, while the information technology sector, which includes cybersecurity firms, advanced 1.6%.


The market rally may continue as long as the conflict does not escalate into a full-blown war that disrupts global trade and growth. However, investors should also be aware of the risks and uncertainties that could derail the bullish momentum, such as inflationary pressures, geopolitical shocks and policy changes.

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