Published July 5, 2026 Your morning rundown on the Canadian economy, markets, and money moves — TSX hits a record close, CUSMA talks roll past the deadline, the first CGEB payment lands, and what to expect ahead of the Bank of Canada's July 15 decision. 1. TSX closes at a record high on gold-miner strength The S&P/TSX Composite climbed 0.9% to close at a record 35,275 on Friday, July 3, powered by gold mining stocks. Gold prices firmed after U.S. nonfarm payrolls for June came in at roughly half the expected pace, fuelling bets that the Federal Reserve could turn more dovish. Agnico Eagle, Wheaton Precious Metals, and Barrick all posted solid gains, while financials like Scotiabank and BMO also moved higher on easing oil-supply concerns. Why it matters: if you hold Canadian equity index funds in your TFSA or RRSP, resource and financial-sector strength has been doing a lot of the heavy lifting this year — worth knowing if your portfolio feels more concentrated than you'd...
Surviving the Heat Wave: How Canadians Can Stay Cool and Prepared
As temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, southern Ontario and Quebec are bracing for dangerously hot conditions. But what impact does this heat wave have on our electricity systems?
The Strain on Electricity Systems
Heat waves pose a “two-angled attack” on the electricity grid. Here’s how:
Increased Demand: As people crank up their air conditioning to beat the heat, the demand for electricity surges. This puts strain on the system, especially transformers and other components.
Temperature Stress: The extra heat generated by infrastructure exacerbates the situation. Transformers, in particular, can only handle so much heat, potentially leading to power failures or outages.
What Authorities Say
Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO): The province’s electricity system is prepared for increased demand due to high temperatures. They closely monitor conditions to ensure a stable and reliable supply.
Hydro-Québec: Quebec’s power provider has contingency plans for different weather conditions. While heat waves don’t significantly impact their equipment, they sometimes report planned service interruptions to ensure clients have access to air conditioning.
Preparation Tips for Canadians
Conserve Energy: Use air conditioning wisely and consider using fans or natural ventilation when possible.
Check Emergency Kits: Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, and other essentials in case of power outages.
Stay Informed: Monitor local news and official advisories for updates on the heat wave and potential power disruptions.
Remember, while Canada’s grid systems are typically resilient, extreme heat waves can still pose risks. Let’s stay prepared and look out for one another during this scorching summer.
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