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Weekly Market Snapshot: Fed Hikes, Oil Above $100 and the TSX Finally Snaps Its Losing Streak (Sept. 15–19, 2026)

  September 19, 2026 It was the week everyone was waiting for. The Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in three years — and almost immediately, markets started debating whether there's more to come. Meanwhile, oil pulled back from the week's highs but stayed well above $100 a barrel, and the TSX managed its first weekly gain after four straight weeks in the red. Here's everything that moved markets — and what it means for your wallet. 🍁 Canada — TSX Index Friday Close Week Change S&P/TSX Composite 35,806.65 +0.3% After four straight weeks in negative territory, the TSX finally caught a break — though "break" is generous. The index eked out a 0.3% weekly gain while closing Friday down 69.58 points (-0.2%), as rising bond yields and lingering energy-sector pressures kept the mood cautious on Bay Street. Financials were mixed: RBC edged slightly lower, TD rose 0.6%, but Fairfax Financial slid 2.6%. Gold miners pulled back after rallying shar...

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Bankruptcies Surge in Canada Amid Economic Challenges

 

In a year marked by financial turbulence, business insolvencies in Canada have reached unprecedented levels. According to data from the federal Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy, 2023 witnessed the highest number of business insolvencies in 36 years of recorded history. The surge was particularly pronounced, with filings rising 35% in the fourth quarter compared to the previous quarter and more than doubling compared to the same period a year ago.

Key Points:

  1. Record High: The total number of businesses filing for insolvency was the highest in 13 years.
  2. Mainly Bankruptcies: The rise was primarily driven by bankruptcies rather than renegotiations of terms.
  3. Hardest-Hit Sectors: Accommodation and food services, retail, and construction experienced the most significant impact.
  4. Financial Challenges: Businesses grappled with rising input costs, wage expenses, and debt servicing costs throughout the pandemic.
  5. Debt Burden: Debt taken on during the pandemic has left some Canadian businesses unviable or in need of debt restructuring.
  6. Government Loans: Business owners who couldn’t repay government pandemic loans (such as CEBA) by the January 19 deadline now face interest charges and monthly payments.

Economic Outlook:

  • Interest Rate Pressure: The additional costs of servicing debts due to higher interest rates may strain businesses already on a precarious edge.
  • Consumer Spending Decline: The weakening economy has also impacted consumer spending, further adding pressure to businesses’ bottom line.
  • Room for Recovery: Some businesses may struggle to manage increased monthly bills, especially if sales remain challenging.

As the Canadian economy navigates these challenges, businesses face a critical juncture. The road to recovery will require resilience, adaptability, and strategic financial management.


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