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Markets Update — Friday, June 26, 2026: Global Tech Sell-Off Rattles Markets as TSX Holds Firm

  Friday, June 26, 2026 — Reporting on confirmed June 25 closing data. Asian and European figures reflect Friday session activity. 🇨🇦 Canada — TSX The S&P/TSX Composite Index closed Thursday at 34,850 , up 0.3% on the day — a relatively resilient showing while Wall Street struggled with a tech-driven selloff. Gains in the financial and mining sectors carried the index. The big Canadian banks were a bright spot: TD Bank added 0.9%, Royal Bank gained 0.4%, and BMO rose 0.9%. On the mining side, Agnico Eagle gained 1.7% as gold prices held near the $4,000 level. Technology names were the drag. Shopify fell 2.6%, Constellation Software lost 3.6%, and Celestica shed 0.7%, tracking the broader global selloff in tech stocks. Still, with Canadian tech making up a far smaller portion of the TSX than it does on U.S. indices, the damage was contained. Investors also parsed Thursday's Bank of Canada Summary of Deliberations, which confirmed policymakers are keeping monetary policy flexi...

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Navigating Return Fees: A Guide to Smarter Post-Holiday Shopping

 

The holiday season often brings with it the need to return or exchange gifts, but this year, consumers are facing a new challenge: return fees. A growing number of retailers are implementing charges for returned merchandise, leaving many shoppers navigating a complex landscape of return policies.

Understanding the Change

  • Increased Fees: Approximately 40% of retailers now charge return fees, a notable increase from 31% last year.
  • Policy Shifts: Return windows are shrinking as pandemic-era extensions fade away.

Strategies to Minimize Costs

  • Loyalty Programs: Joining retailer loyalty programs can offer benefits like free returns, exclusive sales, and reward points.
  • In-Store Returns: Avoid fees by returning items directly to the store, with many retailers offering free in-store returns.
  • Careful Selection: Take the time to choose the right item initially to reduce the likelihood of needing a return.

The Future of Returns Return fees are likely here to stay, and experts suggest that shoppers prepare themselves and their budgets for these additional costs. With online shopping continuing to grow, free returns for everyone may become unsustainable.

By adopting these strategies, consumers can navigate the changing landscape of return policies and minimize the impact of return fees on their post-holiday shopping experience. Remember, a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way in saving money and hassle. Happy shopping!


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