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Weekly Market Snapshot: TSX Holds Firm, Loonie Under Pressure as Energy Prices and Rate Uncertainty Dominate | May 23, 2026

  Markets navigated a week of competing signals — elevated energy prices, persistent U.S. inflation, and a Bank of Canada holding steady at 2.25% — as the TSX showed resilience while the Canadian dollar faced modest headwinds. Here's everything that moved the needle this week. 📊 Key Numbers at a Glance S&P/TSX Composite ~34,268 ▲ +7.1% YTD USD/CAD Rate 1.37 ▼ Off Apr. 30 high of 1.358 WTI Crude Oil ~$99/bbl ↑ ~50% since Iran conflict onset BoC Policy Rate 2.25% Held — May 2026 Canada CPI (April) 2.8% ↑ from 2.4% in March TSX Equities — Resilience Holds The S&P/TSX Composite has maintained its upward trajectory through the first half of 2026, up roughly 7.1% year-to-date as of the end of April — and analysts at CIBC continue to project an 11% overall gain for the full year . The energy and materials sectors have been the primary engines of that performance, with oil-price tailwinds from Middle East tensions providing a significant boost to Canadian producers. On the blue-c...

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Seven Ways the 2024 Federal Budget Impacts Your Finances

 

The 2024 federal budget in Canada has introduced several measures that directly affect your financial well-being. Let’s explore seven key ways this budget impacts you:

  1. Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Increase:

    • The budget proposes raising the capital gains inclusion rate from 50% to 66.67% for corporations, trusts, and individuals (for capital gains exceeding $250,000) on or after June 25, 2024.
    • This change affects how much tax you pay when selling assets like stocks, real estate, or businesses.
  2. Employee Stock Options:

    • If you receive employee stock options, the taxable benefit deduction will be reduced to 33.33% (from 50%) due to the higher capital gains inclusion rate.
    • However, you can still claim a combined deduction of up to $250,000 for both stock options and capital gains.
  3. Net Capital Losses:

    • Prior-year net capital losses can offset taxable capital gains in the current year, even after the rate change.
    • This means losses realized before the rate increase can fully offset equivalent gains afterward.
  4. Affordable Housing Initiatives:

    • The budget aims to build more affordable homes, addressing the challenge of elevated living costs.
    • While there are no changes to personal tax brackets, housing affordability remains a priority.
  5. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT):

    • The budget proposes amendments to AMT proposals, reducing the negative impact on charitable donations’ tax treatment.
    • This benefits those who contribute to charities while minimizing their tax liability.
  6. Carbon Tax Offset:

    • Although not explicitly mentioned, the budget likely includes measures to offset the carbon tax impact on households.
    • These efforts align with environmental goals and may affect your energy costs.
  7. Small Business Investment:

    • Expect further investment incentives for small businesses, encouraging growth and job creation.
    • The budget aims to boost the economy and support entrepreneurs.

In summary, the 2024 federal budget combines tax changes, housing initiatives, and economic strategies to enhance financial stability for Canadians. Stay informed and adapt your financial plans accordingly.

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