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Canada’s Housing Market Faces Headwinds Despite BoC Moves

The Bank of Canada’s 25-basis-point cut in September was at best ignored by the national market, with sales falling 1.7 per cent compared to the month before. The Bank of Canada’s recent interest rate adjustments have done little to revive the country’s housing market, which continues to struggle under the weight of broader economic concerns. In September, the central bank cut its policy rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to 2.5%. Yet, instead of sparking renewed activity, national home sales actually fell by 1.7% compared to the previous month.  Economists note that the housing market is no longer moving in lockstep with monetary policy, but is instead being shaped by regional affordability challenges, consumer psychology, and—most critically—job security fears. Uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policy has also cast a shadow over Canada’s economic outlook. Businesses remain hesitant to invest, and households are wary of making major financial commitments such as home purchas...

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Oil Market in for Uncomfortable Few Weeks After Drone Strike

 


On January 29, 2024, a drone strike killed three US soldiers in the Middle East, escalating regional conflicts and irritating oil markets. The attack’s near-term impact on oil supply is expected to be limited, but the situation is still volatile. Prosper Trading Academy CEO Scott Bauer and Eurasia Group Middle East Practice Head Ayham Kamel warn that this is not going to be a comfortable few weeks.

The oil market is already on its heels due to weak demand. Though geopolitical tensions could move prices, the impact appears muted as risks are already priced in. Bauer sees crude oil in a bearish macro position and is enthusiastic about the current volatility for traders, suggesting investors look to sell.

In conclusion, the drone strike has created an uncomfortable situation for the oil market. While the attack’s near-term impact on oil supply is expected to be limited, the situation is still volatile and could lead to further disruptions in the future.

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