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Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Climbs to 3,145 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has claimed at least 3,145 lives, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies from the rubble. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and destroyed bridges.  Humanitarian aid groups are working tirelessly to provide survivors with medical care and shelter, as thousands remain homeless and vulnerable to disease outbreaks. The United Nations estimates that over 17 million people have been affected by the disaster, with more than 9 million severely impacted.  In response to the crisis, Myanmar's military government has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts. However, ongoing challenges, including communication blackouts and difficult-to-reach areas, have hindered the full assessment of the disaster's impact.  The coming days will be critical in d...

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TSX Futures Point to Upbeat Open as Gold Shines; Powell Testimony in Focus

As the sun rises on the trading day, Canadian investors are keeping a close watch on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). Here’s what’s happening in the premarket:

1. Gold Continues Its Ascent

  • Gold futures are glittering, reaching an impressive $2,162.5.
  • Investors are drawn to the precious metal as a hedge against inflation and uncertainty.

2. Powell Takes the Stage Again

  • Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is back in the spotlight. His second day of congressional testimony is eagerly anticipated.
  • Yesterday, Powell hinted at potential interest rate cuts if inflation continues to wane. His words today could sway market sentiment.

3. Materials Sector Gains

  • The materials sector is poised for a sixth consecutive session of gains.
  • Copper touched a five-week high, fueled by better-than-expected trade data from China, a major metals consumer.

4. Oil Prices Slip

  • Despite upbeat Chinese trade data, oil prices are slipping. Expectations of delayed rate cuts are putting pressure on crude prices.

5. Bank of Canada’s Stance

  • The Bank of Canada (BoC) held its key overnight rate steady at 5%. BoC Governor Tiff Macklem emphasized that underlying inflation suggests it’s too early for a cut.
  • Investors find comfort in the expectation that inflation will ease in the second half of the year.

6. Descartes Systems Gets a Boost

  • Descartes Systems, a software company, saw its fourth-quarter revenue beat estimates. Four brokerages raised their price targets for the stock.

As the TSX gears up for the opening bell, all eyes remain on Powell’s testimony and economic data. Buckle up for a day of market moves and stay tuned for further developments.







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