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Trade Tensions Rise as EU Prepares Retaliation Against U.S. Tariff Hike

The European Union has strongly condemned President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, warning of swift countermeasures that could escalate global trade tensions. Announced Friday near Pittsburgh, Trump raised existing steel and aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50%, aiming to protect U.S. industry and bolster a $14.9 billion Nippon Steel–U.S. Steel deal. The European Commission responded sharply, calling the move a threat to transatlantic economic stability and global supply chains. “This decision adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” a spokesperson said. The EU is finalizing consultations on expanded retaliatory tariffs, set to take effect by July 14 unless a negotiated solution is reached. The reaction from global trade partners was swift. Canada’s Chamber of Commerce criticized the tariffs as a threat to North American economic security, while Canada’s Uni...

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Toronto Home Sales Dip in March Amidst Fierce Competition, But Prices Climb

 

The Greater Toronto real estate market experienced a nuanced landscape in March. While home sales dipped by 4.5% compared to the previous year, the average home price saw a moderate rise due to intense buyer competition.

Key Insights:

  • Sales Volume: A total of 6,560 homes changed hands in March, down from 6,868 in the same period last year. However, this decline can be partially attributed to the Good Friday holiday, which fell within March this year instead of April.
  • Average Selling Price: Despite the drop in sales volume, the average selling price increased by 1.3% year-over-year, reaching $1,121,615.
  • New Listings: New listings surged by 15% during this period. Homeowners seemed to anticipate an improvement in market conditions as spring approached.
  • First Quarter Trends: The first quarter of 2024 ended with 11.2% higher sales year-over-year and a substantial 18.3% increase in new listings.

Market Outlook:

  • Interest Rates: If borrowing costs decrease later this year, we can expect sales to rise and new listings to be absorbed. This could lead to tighter market conditions, further pushing selling prices upward.

As the Toronto real estate landscape continues to evolve, buyers and sellers must stay attuned to these dynamics. The interplay between demand, supply, and economic factors will shape the market’s trajectory in the coming months.


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