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Rising Tensions Leave Ships Stranded in Key Oil Passage

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz ⁠was closed for a fourth day on Tuesday, choking off a key artery accounting for about 20% of global oil and gas supply. Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, has raised urgent concerns over an increasingly alarming situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where dozens of vessels remain stranded amid escalating conflict involving Iran. He emphasized the need to safeguard global shipping and protect seafarers as the strategic waterway—responsible for roughly 20% of global oil and gas flows—remains closed for a fourth consecutive day.  The closure has disrupted international trade routes and heightened anxiety across the maritime sector. Greek authorities have urged shipowners to exercise maximum caution and avoid high‑risk zones in the wider Persian Gulf region as tensions continue to rise. The prolonged shutdown underscores the vulnerability of global supply chains to geopolitical instability and highlights th...

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Canadian Housing Market Enters Winter Hibernation: What You Need to Know

 


According to a recent news article, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has reported that home sales in Canada have slowed down in October, with a 5.6% decline compared to September. The article also mentions that both buyers and sellers appear to be holding off for the time being, with some sellers shelving their plans until next spring.

The causes of the slowdown are attributed to various factors, such as higher interest rates, tighter lending rules, rising home prices, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy and consumer confidence. The article also notes that some regions of British Columbia are starting to see softening in average home prices, while average home price declines are still uncommon throughout most of Canada’s major cities.

Despite the slowdown, the Canadian housing market remains active, with 33,921 homes sold in Canada in October, up 0.9% compared with the same month last year. The national average home price rose 1.8% year-over-year to $656,625.

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Canada, it’s advisable to keep an eye on the market trends and consult with a licensed real estate agent or mortgage broker. They can provide you with valuable insights and advice on how to navigate the current market conditions and make informed decisions.


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