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5 Things to Know Today: TSX Recap, Oil Eases, Loonie Under Pressure & Alberta's Pipeline Announcement (July 3, 2026)

  Friday, July 3, 2026 Here's what's moving markets and your money this morning — from Bay Street to the pumps to Ottawa. 1. TSX gains as investors digest a mixed session The S&P/TSX Composite closed up 0.31% on Thursday at 34,966.67 points (+109.68), its first full trading day back after the Canada Day holiday. Financials were mixed — Brookfield edged higher while TD Bank slipped nearly 1% — but mining stocks got a lift as gold prices ticked up, with Barrick and Franco-Nevada both up more than 3%. Shopify was the standout, jumping over 5% after settling a dispute with Shopline. 2. Oil prices ease as Iran-US talks continue in Doha Crude prices pulled back further and are now trading closer to pre-conflict levels after another round of indirect US-Iran talks in Doha, even though the sides didn't reach a breakthrough. That's welcome news for anyone filling up this long weekend, and it's also easing some of the energy-driven inflation pressure that's been compl...

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New home buyers in trouble as mortgage rates soar

Some buyers who purchased preconstruction homes are finding themselves unable to close on their properties due to rising mortgage rates and stricter lending rules. As a result, they are resorting to selling their contracts to other buyers at a discount, or even giving up their deposits and facing legal risks.

According to Robert McLister, an interest rate analyst and mortgage strategist, this trend is creating opportunities for bargain hunters who are looking for assignment deals. These are transactions where the original buyer transfers their rights and obligations to a new buyer before the home is completed.

However, assignment deals are not without challenges and costs. Both assignors and assignees need to get approval from the builder, pay fees and taxes, and secure financing. Moreover, they need to be aware of the market conditions and the potential risks of flipping or renting out the property.

McLister advises buyers to start evaluating their options early and seek professional help from a tax-savvy accountant, a mortgage broker, and a real estate lawyer. He also suggests that buyers should monitor the bond yields and the Bank of Canada’s rate decisions, as they may affect the future demand and prices of new homes.

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