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Vancouver Budget Balances Books Without Tax Hike

Vancouver city council approved a 2026 budget, which includes a freeze on municipal property taxes. Vancouver City Council has approved a new budget that pledges no increase in property taxes, a move welcomed by many residents facing rising living costs. However, the financial plan comes with significant trade-offs: millions of dollars will be cut from arts programs, park services, and other community initiatives. City officials argue the budget reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility while easing pressure on households. Critics, however, warn that reductions in cultural and recreational funding could erode the city’s vibrancy and limit access to public spaces. The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability with investment in community life. As Vancouver grows, the debate over how to fund essential services without raising taxes is likely to intensify.

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Tech Stocks Decline Amid “Triple Witching” and Nvidia’s Rebalance


The stock market experienced a pullback as tech stocks faced pressure, and a significant options expiration loomed. Here are the key points:

  1. Tech Under Pressure:

    • Tech stocks, including megacap companies, declined.
    • Nvidia Corp. led the losses in this segment.
  2. Triple Witching:

    • Wall Street faced a quarterly event known as “triple witching.”
    • Derivatives contracts tied to stocks, index options, and futures were set to mature.
    • About $5.5 trillion in contracts were expiring, compelling traders to adjust positions.
  3. Volatility and Vulnerability:

    • Short interest in major equity ETFs hit record lows.
    • Lack of bearish investors signaled vulnerability to negative news.
    • Implied volatility on S&P 500 options remained low.
  4. Nvidia’s Rebalance:

    • Nvidia’s sharp rally prompted the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK) to rebalance.
    • Over $10 billion of Nvidia shares were acquired, while Apple’s weight was significantly reduced.
  5. AI Frenzy and Inflows:

    • Nvidia’s AI-related surge made it briefly the world’s most valuable company.
    • Record inflows flowed into tech funds, driven by the ongoing artificial intelligence frenzy.

In summary, tech stocks faced headwinds, and market participants closely watched Nvidia’s earnings and rebalancing dynamics. The landscape remains dynamic, with implications for investors and traders alike.


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