Skip to main content

Featured

Futures Slip as Geopolitical Tensions Overshadow Strong Bank Earnings

  US stock futures edged lower as investors balanced upbeat bank earnings against rising geopolitical unease tied to escalating tensions involving Iran. Contracts tied to the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded in the red, signaling a cautious start to the trading day. Major banks delivered solid quarterly results, with strong trading revenue and resilient consumer activity helping lift sentiment in the financial sector. Yet the optimism was tempered by concerns that potential US responses to developments in Iran could inject fresh volatility into global markets. Energy prices climbed as traders braced for possible disruptions. The pullback comes at a moment when investors are already navigating a crowded landscape of economic data, inflation readings, and policy uncertainty. With markets on edge, even strong corporate performance wasn’t enough to counter the broader risk-off mood.

article

S&P/TSX Composite Hits New Highs: Canadian and U.S. Markets Rally



On March 21, 2024, the S&P/TSX composite index achieved a remarkable milestone, closing atnew all-time high. Simultaneously, U.S. markets continued their upward trajectory, setting records of their own.

Key Highlights:

  1. Canadian Market Surge:

    • The S&P/TSX composite index gained 41.55 points, reaching 22,087.26. This surpasses its previous record of 22,087.22 set in March 2022.
    • Tech and financial stocks played a pivotal role in driving this surge, reflecting investor confidence in these sectors.
  2. U.S. Market Momentum:

    • Across the border, U.S. markets also soared:
      • The Dow Jones industrial average climbed 306.46 points, closing at 39,818.59.
      • The S&P 500 index rose by 30.20 points, reaching 5,254.82.
      • The Nasdaq composite surged 97.44 points, closing at 16,466.85.
  3. Commodity Prices:

    • The Canadian dollar traded at 73.93 cents US, slightly higher than the previous day.
    • Crude oil experienced a dip, with the May contract down 91 cents at US$80.36 per barrel.
    • Natural gas also declined, with the May contract down four cents at US$1.81 per mmBTU.
    • Gold bucked the trend, rising by US$17.40 to US$2,178.40 per ounce.
    • Copper remained stable, down just a penny at US$4.05 per pound.

In summary, both Canadian and U.S. markets are riding high, fueled by optimism and robust economic indicators. Investors are closely monitoring developments as we navigate these record-breaking times.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making investment decisions.

1: Read more

Comments