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Wall Street Eyes Weekly Gain as Peace Hopes Lift Futures

  Wall Street Poised for Weekly Gain as Futures Climb on Middle East Peace Hopes Wall Street looked set to close the week on a positive note as U.S. equity futures climbed Friday, supported by renewed optimism that diplomatic progress in the Middle East could ease geopolitical tensions. Investors have been highly sensitive to any signs of de‑escalation, and this week’s developments helped unwind some of the risk premiums that had weighed on global markets. Oil prices, which surged earlier in the month on fears of supply disruptions, pulled back again as ceasefire discussions gained traction. Lower energy costs have helped cool inflation expectations, giving markets a bit more breathing room after a volatile stretch. Major U.S. indexes are now on track for a weekly gain, with tech and consumer stocks leading the rebound. Still, analysts caution that sentiment remains fragile: any setback in negotiations could quickly revive market turbulence. For Canadian investors, easing oil v...

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Trudeau Announces GST Holiday and $250 Cheques to Ease Holiday Costs

 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has unveiled a series of measures aimed at alleviating financial pressures for Canadians during the holiday season. The announcement includes a two-month GST holiday on select goods and services, as well as $250 cheques for many Canadians.

Starting December 14, 2024, and running through February 15, 2025, the GST holiday will apply to a variety of items, including prepared foods, restaurant meals, snacks, children’s clothing and footwear, toys, books, and Christmas trees. This initiative is designed to provide immediate relief to families and individuals facing high costs during the festive period.

In addition to the GST holiday, the federal government will issue $250 cheques to Canadians who earned up to $150,000 in 2023. These cheques, part of the “Working Canadians Rebate,” are expected to be distributed in early spring 2025.

Trudeau emphasized that these measures are intended to help Canadians manage their expenses during a time of year that can be particularly financially challenging. “For two months, Canadians are going to get a real break on everything they do,” he said at a media event in Newmarket, Ontario.

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland added that the GST holiday and rebate are part of the government’s broader efforts to support Canadians as the country continues to recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

These initiatives are expected to save taxpayers an estimated $1.6 billion over the two-month period, providing significant relief to many households across the country.


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