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Markets Digest Iran Peace Progress and Fed Rate-Hike Risk — June 22, 2026

  Markets are easing into a cautious start this Monday as investors return from a long weekend — U.S. markets were closed Friday for Juneteenth — and assess a mixed backdrop: tentative optimism over U.S.–Iran peace talks, a newly hawkish Federal Reserve, and a key week of economic data and earnings ahead. Oil is steadying, the Canadian dollar is under modest pressure, and Asian markets rallied while European and U.S. futures drifted slightly lower in early trading. 🍁 Canada — TSX & the Loonie The S&P/TSX Composite Index heads into Monday trading with a cautious tone, sitting near the 34,857 level after slipping 0.32% on Thursday — the last day Canadian markets were open. Energy stocks will be in focus as oil prices stabilize following weeks of volatility tied to the U.S.–Iran conflict and the partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The Canadian dollar is trading at approximately 70.52 cents U.S. (CAD/USD: 0.7052), down about 0.22% on the session. The loonie remains und...

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Federal Contracting Scandal: The ArriveCan App Controversy


  • Contracting Overview: Three companies involved in the ArriveCan app development received over $1-billion in federal contracts since 2011. The firms, Coradix Technology Consulting, Dalian Enterprises, and GCStrategies, have been suspended pending investigations into alleged misconduct.

  • Parliamentary Scrutiny: The sharp increase in federal outsourcing, from approximately $8-billion in 2016 to over $21-billion last year, has led to parliamentary scrutiny. Allegations include inflated résumés and a reliance on IT staffing firms that subcontract work for commissions.

  • Indigenous Procurement Strategy: Dalian, an aboriginally owned company, partnered with Coradix for contracts under the federal Procurement Strategy for Indigenous Business. Audits are underway to ensure compliance with program rules.

  • Conflict of Interest Concerns: Revelations of conflict of interest have emerged, including a case where a public servant was involved with a contracting company. The Treasury Board disclosed 162 conflict-of-interest declarations for the 2023-24 fiscal year, with ongoing reviews.

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