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Weekly Market Snapshot: Mideast Tensions and Chip Selloff Rattle Global Markets (July 13–17)

  Week of July 13–17, 2026 It was a rough week to be a tech investor and a good week to own oil. Escalating conflict between the US and Iran pushed crude sharply higher and rattled global markets, while a fresh wave of selling in semiconductor stocks dragged US and Asian indices lower. Closer to home, the Bank of Canada held its key rate steady, and the TSX—less exposed to chipmakers—held up noticeably better than its US and Asian peers. Here’s how the week broke down across every major market, and what it means for your wallet. 🇨🇦 Canada: TSX Day Close Change Mon, Jul 13 35,252.72 -0.15% Wed, Jul 15 (BoC day) 35,416.20 +0.27% Thu, Jul 16 35,340.15 -0.21% Fri, Jul 17 ~35,262 -0.22% Week total (Fri-to-Fri) — ~flat (about -0.1%) The TSX had a choppy but ultimately quiet week compared with its global peers. Monday's session opened with the Strait of Hormuz blockade headlines and closed lower. Wednesday brought a relief rally after the Bank of Canada's rate hold, with financials ...

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Ontario is gearing up for a significant change on its highways as the Ford government announces an increase in speed limits. Starting July 12, drivers will experience a new pace of travel with speed limits rising to 110 km/h on select sections. This move is set to affect over 250 km of Highway 401, including stretches around Kingston and Belleville, as well as parts of Highway 403 near Brantford.

The decision follows a successful pilot program and consultations that began in 2019. It also aligns Ontario’s speed limits with those in other Canadian provinces, making for a more uniform driving experience across the country. The government assures that the highways were originally designed to safely accommodate the new speed limits, and data from the 2022 changes support this claim.

While the speed limit increase is welcomed by many for its promise of a more convenient commute, it does not alter the threshold for stunt driving charges. In Ontario, speeds exceeding 50 km/h above the posted limit can lead to such charges, and with the new changes, 150 km/h remains the cutoff.

As Ontario prepares for this shift, drivers are reminded to adjust their habits accordingly and enjoy the benefits of a faster, yet safe, journey on the province’s highways.

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