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AI Anxiety and Metal Mayhem Shake U.S. Markets

U.S. stock futures stumbled as renewed doubts about the sustainability of the artificial‑intelligence boom rippled through financial markets. Tech-heavy benchmarks led the decline, with Nasdaq futures sliding and the S&P 500 also moving lower as investors reassessed whether AI-linked valuations have run too far, too fast. The unease wasn’t limited to equities. Precious metals experienced dramatic intraday swings, with gold and silver both whipsawing after a period of rapid gains. Traders pointed to shifting expectations around interest rates and safe‑haven demand as key drivers behind the volatility. The combination of tech-sector skepticism and commodity turbulence has created a tense backdrop for markets. While some investors see the pullback as a healthy reset, others worry it may signal deeper concerns about the durability of the recent rally. Markets now look ahead to upcoming economic data and corporate earnings for clearer direction.

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Montreal Dockworkers Reject Final Offer, Lockout Declared

 

In a significant development, the Montreal Longshoremen’s Union has overwhelmingly rejected the final offer from the Maritime Employers Association (MEA), leading to an immediate lockout. The union, representing approximately 1,200 dockworkers, voted 99.7% against the proposed contract, citing the employer’s refusal to negotiate in good faith.

The MEA expressed disappointment over the outcome, stating that the lockout was unavoidable due to the union’s stance. Essential services and activities unrelated to dockworkers will continue at the port, but the lockout is expected to have substantial economic repercussions, given the Port of Montreal’s role as Canada’s second-largest port, handling nearly $400 million in goods daily.

Union advisor Michel Murray criticized the MEA’s approach, emphasizing that the offer did not address the union’s demands and that the conflict could have been avoided with proper negotiations. The federal labour minister has been urged to intervene to mitigate the economic impact of the lockout.

This lockout adds to the ongoing labor disputes at Canada’s major ports, with workers at the Port of Vancouver also locked out due to a separate contract dispute.


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