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Markets Digest Iran Peace Progress and Fed Rate-Hike Risk — June 22, 2026

  Markets are easing into a cautious start this Monday as investors return from a long weekend — U.S. markets were closed Friday for Juneteenth — and assess a mixed backdrop: tentative optimism over U.S.–Iran peace talks, a newly hawkish Federal Reserve, and a key week of economic data and earnings ahead. Oil is steadying, the Canadian dollar is under modest pressure, and Asian markets rallied while European and U.S. futures drifted slightly lower in early trading. 🍁 Canada — TSX & the Loonie The S&P/TSX Composite Index heads into Monday trading with a cautious tone, sitting near the 34,857 level after slipping 0.32% on Thursday — the last day Canadian markets were open. Energy stocks will be in focus as oil prices stabilize following weeks of volatility tied to the U.S.–Iran conflict and the partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The Canadian dollar is trading at approximately 70.52 cents U.S. (CAD/USD: 0.7052), down about 0.22% on the session. The loonie remains und...

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Netanyahu Cancels Israeli Delegation to U.S. After U.N. Ceasefire Vote

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has canceled an Israeli delegation’s planned visit to Washington, D.C., scheduled for this week. The decision came after the United States refrained from vetoing a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

The U.N. Security Council’s resolution marks the first time it has demanded an immediate ceasefire since the war began. Fourteen out of fifteen countries voted in favor of the resolution, which specifically called for a halt to fighting in Gaza during the month of Ramadan. Notably, the resolution did not impose any preconditions, such as the release of hostages.

The United States’ abstention from voting was a significant shift. Just last week, the U.S. submitted a draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire without linking it to the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The change in position reflects a departure from decades of stalwart support for Israel.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized the ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to secure an immediate and sustainable ceasefire. She stressed the need to alleviate the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, who are in dire need of protection and life-saving humanitarian assistance.

Netanyahu’s decision to cancel the delegation’s trip underscores the tension surrounding the UN vote and highlights the delicate balance between international diplomacy and regional conflict. As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches closely for any signs of progress toward peace in the troubled region.

Last October, President Biden met with Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, but recent events have strained the traditionally strong U.S.-Israel relationship.

As the conflict persists, the international community remains hopeful for a resolution that brings an end to the violence and paves the way for lasting peace in the Middle East.

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