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5 Things to Know Today: Markets Near Records, Rates Hold, Oil Eases

  Here's what Canadian money watchers need to know as we head into the week: 1. TSX Hits Record Territory Amid Diplomatic Optimism The S&P/TSX Composite Index is hovering near 35,000 , approaching record levels as markets digest positive signals from U.S.-Iran negotiations. Senior officials say a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be signed at next week's G7 summit, easing geopolitical tensions and supporting oil-sensitive sectors. Financial stocks led gains—RBC, TD, and BMO all rose about 0.5–1%—while mining names like Agnico Eagle and WPM climbed despite softer gold prices. What it means for your wallet: A more stable geopolitical backdrop and lower oil prices could ease inflation concerns, improving conditions for your savings and investments. 2. Bank of Canada Holds Rates at 2.25% for Fifth Time On June 10, the BoC kept its benchmark overnight rate steady at 2.25% —marking five consecutive holds since October 2025. Governor Tiff Macklem cited a "two-directi...

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US Futures Stall After Record-Setting Rally

 


US stock futures wobbled on Friday, losing steam after a record-setting rally and blowout month as the relief sparked by an influential inflation reading ebbed. The S&P 500 futures were little changed, coming off the benchmark’s record close and best February in almost a decade. Futures on the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 also wavered around the flatline.

Stocks are kicking off March in a subdued mood, a shift from the upbeat reaction to PCE data that showed inflation continued to cool — easing worries the Federal Reserve would get more reason to hold off from interest-rate cuts. But further scrutiny has highlighted signs of “sticky” inflation that will be harder to shift.

Among big movers, shares in New York Community Bancorp (NYCB) tumbled 20% in premarket after the exit of its CEO, a $2.7 billion quarterly loss, and findings of “material weaknesses” in the bank’s loan processes. Meanwhile, Dell (DELL) shares rose almost 25% in the wake of a quarterly sales and profit beat fueled by AI prospects for its servers. Developments at OpenAI caught the attention of investors tracking the sector. Elon Musk has sued the Microsoft-backed company and its CEO Sam Altman, among others, over a breach of contract. Also, the ChatGPT maker is reportedly set to name new board members in March to end an impasse linked to Altman’s abrupt firing last year.

In summary, the market’s exuberance has tempered, and investors are closely watching inflation trends and corporate developments. As we navigate March, the delicate balance between economic indicators and market sentiment remains crucial.


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