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Weekly Market Snapshot: Mideast Tensions and Chip Selloff Rattle Global Markets (July 13–17)

  Week of July 13–17, 2026 It was a rough week to be a tech investor and a good week to own oil. Escalating conflict between the US and Iran pushed crude sharply higher and rattled global markets, while a fresh wave of selling in semiconductor stocks dragged US and Asian indices lower. Closer to home, the Bank of Canada held its key rate steady, and the TSX—less exposed to chipmakers—held up noticeably better than its US and Asian peers. Here’s how the week broke down across every major market, and what it means for your wallet. 🇨🇦 Canada: TSX Day Close Change Mon, Jul 13 35,252.72 -0.15% Wed, Jul 15 (BoC day) 35,416.20 +0.27% Thu, Jul 16 35,340.15 -0.21% Fri, Jul 17 ~35,262 -0.22% Week total (Fri-to-Fri) — ~flat (about -0.1%) The TSX had a choppy but ultimately quiet week compared with its global peers. Monday's session opened with the Strait of Hormuz blockade headlines and closed lower. Wednesday brought a relief rally after the Bank of Canada's rate hold, with financials ...

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New Delhi Shuts Down Schools and Construction Amid Severe Air Pollution Crisis

The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere".

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.








The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit12.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning23.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground4.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible4.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere"4.

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.

1: MSN 2: India TV News 3: Yahoo News 4: ABC News


Would you like to know more about the measures being taken to address air pollution in New Delhi?

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