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Futures Slip as Geopolitical Tensions Overshadow Strong Bank Earnings

  US stock futures edged lower as investors balanced upbeat bank earnings against rising geopolitical unease tied to escalating tensions involving Iran. Contracts tied to the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded in the red, signaling a cautious start to the trading day. Major banks delivered solid quarterly results, with strong trading revenue and resilient consumer activity helping lift sentiment in the financial sector. Yet the optimism was tempered by concerns that potential US responses to developments in Iran could inject fresh volatility into global markets. Energy prices climbed as traders braced for possible disruptions. The pullback comes at a moment when investors are already navigating a crowded landscape of economic data, inflation readings, and policy uncertainty. With markets on edge, even strong corporate performance wasn’t enough to counter the broader risk-off mood.

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Trudeau Set to Announce Temporary GST Break on Essential Items

 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to announce a temporary GST break on essential items, responding to affordability pressures faced by Canadians. This announcement, anticipated on Thursday, comes after demands from the New Democratic Party (NDP) for more substantial and permanent tax relief measures.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has stated that while the temporary GST break is a step in the right direction, it falls short of the permanent relief his party has been advocating for. The GST break is part of a broader multi-billion-dollar package aimed at providing immediate financial relief to families struggling with rising costs.

The temporary suspension of the GST will apply to a range of essential items, including certain grocery products, children’s clothing, and other necessities. This measure is expected to take effect before the holiday season, offering some respite to Canadians during a time of increased financial strain.

The announcement is seen as a strategic move by the Liberal government to address growing public dissatisfaction and to break the legislative gridlock that has recently paralyzed the House of Commons. The NDP has indicated their support for the measure, which could help expedite its passage through Parliament.


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