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Massive Russian Strikes Cripple Ukraine’s Power Grid Ahead of Peace Talks

An employee works at a thermal power plant damaged by multiple Russian missile strikes, in an undisclosed location in Ukraine. Russian forces launched a sweeping overnight assault on Ukraine’s energy network, striking multiple regions just hours before planned peace discussions. The barrage targeted major cities including Kyiv and Kharkiv, damaging power stations and transmission lines that millions rely on for heat and electricity during freezing winter conditions. Ukrainian officials reported widespread outages, with emergency crews working through the night to stabilize the grid. Residential areas were also hit, leaving civilians injured and prompting renewed concerns about the humanitarian toll of the conflict. The timing of the strikes has drawn sharp criticism from Ukrainian leaders, who argue the attacks are intended to undermine the upcoming negotiations and pressure Kyiv at the bargaining table. Despite the escalation, both sides are still expected to attend the talks, thou...

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Market Predicts 50 Basis Point Rate Cut by BoC Amidst Weak Job Data

 

In a surprising turn of events, money markets are now heavily betting on an oversized 50 basis point rate cut by the Bank of Canada (BoC) next week, following today's disappointing jobs data. Analysts had anticipated a more conservative cut, but the weaker-than-expected employment figures have shifted expectations dramatically.

The BoC had previously cut interest rates by 50 basis points in October, bringing the rate down to 3.75%. This move was aimed at curbing inflation and supporting economic growth. However, today's job data revealed a sluggish labor market, with modest job layoffs and weak business hiring, particularly affecting young people and newcomers to Canada.

Economists are now predicting that the BoC will take a more aggressive stance to stimulate the economy, with a 50 basis point cut seen as necessary to maintain inflation at the 2% target and support economic recovery. The market's reaction underscores the growing concerns about the economic outlook and the need for more substantial measures to boost growth.

As the BoC prepares for its December rate decision, all eyes will be on the central bank to see if it follows through with the anticipated rate cut. The decision will have significant implications for borrowing costs and overall economic activity in Canada.



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