Skip to main content

Featured

Markets Slip as Investors Bet on Extended U.S.–Iran Ceasefire

  Stocks Edge Lower as Investors Hope U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Will Hold Stocks drifted lower today as markets balanced cautious optimism over a potential extension of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire with persistent geopolitical and inflation concerns. Recent trading sessions have shown that even modest signs of diplomatic progress can meaningfully shift investor sentiment. Asian and U.S. markets rallied earlier this week on hopes that Washington and Tehran would continue negotiations, helping unwind some of the war-driven risk premiums that had pushed oil and volatility higher. Despite the pullback, investors remain hopeful that the ceasefire—currently set to expire soon—will be extended, giving negotiators more time to work toward a longer-term agreement. Reports indicate both sides are considering adding another two weeks to the pause, a move that has already helped push Brent crude below the recent peak of nearly US$120 per barrel. Lower oil prices have eased pressure on inflation expecta...

article

C$ falls to a four-week low against the US dollar as investors watch the economy's reaction to rate hikes

 


The Canadian dollar (C$) has slipped against the US dollar as investors are keeping a close eye on the economy's reaction to rate hikes. The C$ fell to a near four-week low against the US dollar, trading 0.4% lower at 1.3395 to the greenback, or 74.65 US cents. The Bank of Canada (BoC) has said that a slowdown in the domestic economy is an indication that its monetary policy is working. Money markets expect the central bank to cut its benchmark interest rate in April after holding it at a 22-year high of 5% for a third straight policy meeting in December. Canadians borrowed heavily during the pandemic to participate in a red-hot housing market. The BoC has said that the domestic economy is particularly sensitive to higher borrowing costs. 



Comments