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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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Canada’s Unemployment Rate Rises, Fueling Speculation of July Rate Cut

 

Canada’s unemployment rate has climbed for the third time in four months, reaching 6.2%. While the country added 26,700 jobs in May, the rising jobless rate has prompted economists to consider the possibility of a rate cut by the Bank of Canada. Here are the key points:

  1. Job Market Trends:

    • Canada’s labor market saw modest growth, but the unemployment rate edged up by 0.1 percentage point.
    • The unemployment rate has risen by 1.1 percentage points since April last year.
    • The involuntary part-time rate increased, signaling potential weakness in the economy.

  2. Bank of Canada’s Stance:

    • Governor Tiff Macklem hinted at further rate cuts if inflation progress continues.
    • The central bank is “not close” to the limit of divergence from the Federal Reserve.
    • Markets have priced in about a 58% chance of another rate cut next month.

  3. Economic Outlook:

    • While there’s evidence supporting lower interest rates, the economy hasn’t plummeted.
    • Expect a gradual pace of interest rate reductions this year, with cuts likely at alternate meetings.

In summary, Canada’s rising unemployment rate has put pressure on the Bank of Canada to consider a rate cut in July. Economists are closely monitoring the situation, and the decision will have implications for the Canadian dollar and bond yields. Stay tuned for further updates as the economic landscape evolves.


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