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Tragic Loss: First Openly Gay Muslim Imam Killed in South Africa

In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through communities worldwide, Muhsin Hendricks, the first openly gay Muslim imam, was fatally shot in South Africa. The incident occurred on Saturday in the city of Gqeberha, where Hendricks was ambushed by two men in a pick-up truck. The attackers, whose faces were covered, fired multiple shots through the side window of Hendricks' car. Hendricks was renowned for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion within Islam. He founded a mosque in Cape Town that welcomed gay Muslims and worked tirelessly through his Al-Ghurbaab Foundation to support and mentor individuals struggling to reconcile their faith with their sexual orientation. His efforts made him a prominent figure internationally, and he was a speaker at the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association’s conference in South Africa last year. The motive for the killing has not been established, but many believe it was an assassination due to Hendricks' progres...

Canada’s Economy Surges: Q4 Growth Exceeds Expectations By Copilot

 

In a welcome turn of events, Canada’s economy demonstrated resilience by surpassing expectations in the fourth quarter of 2023. Here are the key highlights:

Fourth-Quarter Growth

  • Annualized Rate: The Canadian economy expanded at an impressive annualized rate of 1.0% during Q4. This growth rate exceeded both the Bank of Canada’s (BoC) conservative 0.0% forecast and the 0.8% growth rate anticipated by analysts in a Reuters poll.

  • Exports Fuel Growth: The surge in quarterly growth was primarily driven by a rise in exports, even as imports declined. This positive momentum reflects the country’s ability to navigate global challenges.

  • Business Investment Moderates: While exports played a pivotal role, a decline in business investment acted as a moderating factor. Balancing these dynamics is crucial for sustained economic progress.

Inflation and Monetary Policy

  • Central Bank’s Dilemma: The Bank of Canada faces a delicate balancing act. With inflation still running above its 2% target at 2.9%, the central bank must carefully consider its next moves.

  • Interest Rates: The BoC’s focus has shifted from rate hikes to potential rate cuts. The current policy rate stands at a 22-year high of 5%. The bank’s next announcement is scheduled for March 6, where it is expected to maintain rates.

  • Market Expectations: Money markets predict a rate cut in June, with bets fully priced in for a 25 basis point cut in July. Investors are closely monitoring economic indicators for clues on the central bank’s future actions.

January’s Momentum

  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP) likely grew by 0.4% in January, according to Statistics Canada data. Sectors such as educational services and health care contributed positively, while mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction faced headwinds.

As Canada continues its economic journey, policymakers, businesses, and investors remain vigilant. The robust Q4 performance provides hope for sustained growth, but challenges persist. 

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