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Markets Rebound as Hopes for Iran–U.S. Dialogue Ease Geopolitical Tensions

U.S. stock futures edged higher on Wednesday as signs of potential diplomatic movement in the Iran–U.S. standoff helped calm volatile markets. Futures tied to the S&P 500 rose about 0.3%, the Nasdaq 100 gained 0.5%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures added 0.2% after a turbulent prior session.  The shift in sentiment followed reports that Iran has quietly approached the United States to discuss terms for ending the escalating conflict , a development that helped cool fears of further disruption in global energy markets. This diplomatic signal contributed to a rebound after Tuesday’s sharp sell-off, when concerns over widening conflict and rising oil prices rattled investors.  The conflict, now in its fifth day, has seen continued strikes and mounting casualties, adding to market unease. Iran is preparing for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, killed in recent attacks, while regional tensions remain high.  Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Wednesda...

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Condo market slump: GTA projects cancelled amid low demand


According to a report released today, The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is experiencing a slowdown in condominium sales, with builders shelving dozens of new condo projects due to low sales. The number of new condominiums started construction in the GTA has hit a 10-year low of 1,798 units, down 72% from the second quarter of 2022.


The report also suggests that rising interest rates and market uncertainty have contributed to the decline in sales. Urbanation’s Q3-2023 Condominium Market Survey reveals that the number of condos sold in the Toronto region failed to reach the 3,000 mark, with only 2,664 new condo units sold throughout the GTA during the third quarter of this year .


The report attributed the surge in cancellations to a combination of factors, including rising construction costs, supply chain disruptions, labour shortages, financing challenges, and changing consumer preferences. Urbanation's president, Shaun Hildebrand, said that the GTA condo market is undergoing a "major correction" and that developers are facing "unprecedented headwinds" in bringing their projects to completion.




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