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Weekly Market Snapshot: TSX Rises as Oil Rebounds and U.S. Markets Cool

  TSX Edges Higher on Energy Strength The TSX posted a modest gain this week, supported by rising energy and financial stocks as oil prices rebounded from recent lows. Investor sentiment improved as commodity demand projections stabilized and geopolitical tensions eased. S&P 500 Cools After Strong Run The S&P 500 paused its recent rally, with tech names seeing mild pullbacks as traders reassessed earnings expectations and upcoming Federal Reserve commentary. Defensive sectors saw renewed interest as investors rotated toward value. Oil Rebounds, Supporting Canadian Markets Oil prices climbed on supply concerns and improving global demand forecasts. The rebound helped lift Canadian energy producers and contributed to the TSX’s relative outperformance. Canadian Dollar Holds Steady The CAD traded in a narrow range, balancing stronger commodity prices against softer domestic economic data. Markets continue to watch for Bank of Canada signals on future rate direction. Wi...

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Hamas Rejects Cease-Fire Proposal Amid Escalating Tensions

In a recent development, Hamas has firmly rejected the latest cease-fire proposal, accusing Israel of ignoring its core demands. These demands include an end to the ongoing war and a full withdrawal from Gaza. The statement came shortly after the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire and the release of all hostages held in Gaza.

The vote at the UN provoked a clash between Israel and the United States. Surprisingly, the US decided not to use its veto power, leading to further tensions. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu canceled a high-level delegation’s planned visit to Washington.

An independent expert working with the U.N.’s top human rights body has also raised concerns. The expert stated that there are “reasonable grounds” to believe that Israel is carrying out genocide in Gaza. Meanwhile, international aid officials report that the entire population of the Gaza Strip—2.3 million people—is suffering from food insecurity, with famine looming in the hard-hit north. The conflict has resulted in over 32,000 deaths and more than 74,000 wounded, with women and children making up two-thirds of the casualties. Additionally, Hamas is still believed to be holding around 100 Israelis hostage, along with the remains of 30 others.

As the situation remains tense, the U.N.'s demand for a cease-fire in Gaza has provoked the strongest clash between the U.S. and Israel since the war began. Israeli and U.S. defense chiefs are set to meet, and global support for Israel’s offensive is waning. All this unfolds against the backdrop of Jerusalem’s festive holiday of Purim, which is now overshadowed by the ongoing conflict.

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