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Chrystia Freeland Steps Down from Cabinet to Take on Ukraine Envoy Role

                          Transport and Internal Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland is stepping down from cabinet. Chrystia Freeland, one of Canada’s most prominent political figures for over a decade, is leaving her role as Transport Minister to become Canada’s special envoy to Ukraine. The Toronto MP, who is of Ukrainian heritage and speaks the language fluently, announced her decision following weeks of speculation. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed the appointment, praising Freeland’s “principled leadership” and her steadfast advocacy for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Freeland, who previously served as deputy prime minister and finance minister, said she will remain in Parliament but will not seek re-election. Her new role will focus on supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction and strengthening Canada’s diplomatic presence in the region. Freeland’s deep ties to Ukraine, both personal and ...

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Wall Street Nears 5,000 Milestone

 

U.S. stocks continued their upward trajectory, setting more records as evidence mounted of a remarkably solid job market. Here’s a snapshot of today’s market activity:

  • The S&P 500 inched up by 2.85 points, reaching 4,997.91.
  • The Dow Jones Industrial Average also achieved an all-time high, edging up by 48.97 points to 38,726.33.
  • The Nasdaq composite gained 37.07 points, closing at 15,793.71.

During the day, the S&P 500 even briefly surpassed the 5,000 level for the first time. While such milestones may seem arbitrary in a market driven by math and financial data, they can offer a psychological boost. Remember, not long ago, experts were predicting a near-certain bear market and recession. Yet, the U.S. economy has defied expectations, and the latest report indicates fewer workers applied for unemployment benefits last week than anticipated.

Investors are increasingly recognizing that positive economic news translates to higher corporate profits, which ultimately benefit stocks. Earnings reports from major U.S. companies have been mixed, with some notable winners:

  • The Walt Disney Co. reported stronger-than-expected profits, benefiting from cost cuts and growth at its theme parks.
  • Ralph Lauren saw robust holiday sales worldwide, particularly in Asia.
  • Arm Holdings, a U.K.-based semiconductor company, exceeded analysts’ expectations.
  • However, PayPal fell short of profit forecasts for 2024, and S&P Global reported weaker profits for the latest quarter.

As Wall Street approaches the 5,000 milestone, it serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come. Amid the market’s emotional swings, staying grounded in data and fundamentals remains crucial. 

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