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Canada’s Jobless Rate Rises to 6.8% Despite December Hiring

          A employee sorts batteries on a conveyor belt at a recycling facility in Port Colborne, Ontario. Canada’s unemployment rate climbed to 6.8% in December , even though the economy added 8,200 jobs during the month. The increase in unemployment wasn’t driven by widespread layoffs but by a surge in the number of people entering the labour force and actively looking for work. December Highlights Unemployment rate: Up from 6.5% to 6.8% Employment: Net gain of 8,200 jobs Labour force: Expanded significantly, outpacing job creation Full-time work: Increased Part-time work: Declined Why the Rate Rose Economists point out that the rise in unemployment reflects renewed labour market participation , not a weakening economy. More Canadians felt confident enough to start job hunting, but hiring didn’t keep pace with the influx of job seekers. This marks the fourth straight month of employment growth , yet December also saw the largest increas...

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Stock Market Today: Record Highs as Fed Signals Delay in Rate Cuts



Investors rejoiced today as Wall Street surged to new heights, building upon a record-setting rally. The Federal Reserve’s recent signals of delaying but not slowing down rate cuts fueled the market’s optimism.

Key Highlights:

  1. Fed’s Decision: The Federal Reserve announced its decision to keep interest rates steady, but with a twist. It expects to cut rates three times this year, providing a boost to investor confidence.

  2. Reddit’s IPO: Social media giant Reddit (RDDT) made its public debut on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) today. Priced at $34 per share, the company is now valued at nearly $6.5 billion.

  3. Market Rally: All three major indices – the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI), Nasdaq Composite (IXIC), and S&P 500 (GSPC) – closed at new highs. The S&P 500 surpassed the 5,200 level, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite moved up 0.9%.

  4. Inflation Concerns: Despite sticky inflation data, the Fed maintained its outlook for three rate cuts in 2024. Policymakers remain committed to their easing strategy.

  5. Gold Soars: Gold prices (GC=F) jumped to a record above $2,200 an ounce, reflecting investors’ confidence in the Fed’s approach.

  6. AI Growth and Beyond: While AI growth continues to boost tech stocks, other market drivers are likely to come into focus in the coming weeks.

  7. Swiss National Bank’s Move: The Swiss National Bank surprised markets by lowering interest rates, signaling confidence that tightening has peaked in leading economies.

With the next Fed policy meeting scheduled for May, investors will closely monitor economic indicators and corporate developments. As Reddit joins the NYSE, and Micron (MU) shares surge, the market remains dynamic and full of opportunities.

Stay tuned for more updates as the stock market continues its upward trajectory.


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