U.S. stocks edged lower as investors navigated a mix of rising oil prices, corporate earnings signals, and shifting expectations around Federal Reserve policy. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all turned down after early gains, reflecting a market grappling with geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns. Indexes Pull Back All three major indexes slipped roughly between 0.3% and 0.6%, giving back some of the previous session’s momentum. The downturn followed renewed volatility in energy markets and cautious sentiment around consumer spending. Oil Prices Add Fresh Pressure Crude prices extended their sharp rally, driven by heightened worries over a potential U.S.–Iran conflict. Brent crude climbed above $71 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $66 — its biggest daily jump since October. Rising energy costs revived inflation concerns and weighed on equities. Walmart Earnings in Focus Walmart posted stronger‑than‑expected results, but its cautious pro...
In a welcome development for the Canadian economy, the labour market added 37,300 jobs in January. This surge in employment comes as a breath of fresh air, especially considering the challenges posed by the pandemic and economic fluctuations.
Key Highlights:
Unemployment Rate Declines: The unemployment rate dipped to 5.7 per cent, marking the first decline since December 2022. This positive trend signals a potential recovery and renewed confidence in the job market.
Part-Time Work on the Rise: The increase in jobs was primarily driven by a surge in part-time employment, which saw a gain of 48,900 positions. However, the number of full-time jobs experienced a slight decline of 11,600 during the same period.
Economic Resilience: Despite global uncertainties, Canada’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience. The labour force’s adaptability and employers’ willingness to hire contribute to this encouraging trend.
As we move forward, it’s essential to monitor these developments closely. While the current data paints an optimistic picture, sustained efforts are necessary to ensure stable and inclusive growth.
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