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Markets Rebound as Hopes for Iran–U.S. Dialogue Ease Geopolitical Tensions

U.S. stock futures edged higher on Wednesday as signs of potential diplomatic movement in the Iran–U.S. standoff helped calm volatile markets. Futures tied to the S&P 500 rose about 0.3%, the Nasdaq 100 gained 0.5%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures added 0.2% after a turbulent prior session.  The shift in sentiment followed reports that Iran has quietly approached the United States to discuss terms for ending the escalating conflict , a development that helped cool fears of further disruption in global energy markets. This diplomatic signal contributed to a rebound after Tuesday’s sharp sell-off, when concerns over widening conflict and rising oil prices rattled investors.  The conflict, now in its fifth day, has seen continued strikes and mounting casualties, adding to market unease. Iran is preparing for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, killed in recent attacks, while regional tensions remain high.  Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Wednesda...

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Canada's Unemployment Rate Hits 6.8% in November: Highest Since January 2017

Canada's unemployment rate surged to 6.8% in November, reaching its highest level since January 2017, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic period. This increase comes despite the addition of 51,000 jobs during the month.

Statistics Canada's November labour force survey revealed that the rise in unemployment was driven by a growing number of people entering the job market, which outpaced job creation. The labour force participation rate increased by 0.3 percentage points.

Economists are closely watching these developments as the Bank of Canada prepares for its upcoming interest rate decision. With high interest rates cooling the labour market over the past year, many unemployed Canadians have faced longer periods without work.

The report also highlighted that 46.3% of unemployed Canadians in November had not worked in the last year or had never worked, up from 39.5% a year ago. Meanwhile, average hourly wages were up 4.1% from a year ago, marking a slowdown in annual wage growth.

As the country grapples with these economic challenges, the Bank of Canada's decision on interest rates will be crucial in shaping the future of the job market.



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