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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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Ceasefire in Gaza: A Historic Prisoner Swap

In a significant development towards peace, Hamas militants released four female Israeli soldiers held captive since October 7, 2023. The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City. This exchange was part of a broader ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, which also saw the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners.

The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt and Qatar with backing from the United States, aims to end the 15-month-long conflict that has devastated Gaza. The release of the soldiers was met with jubilation in Israel, with crowds gathering in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square to watch the event on large screens.

Israel's release of the Palestinian prisoners, including many serving life sentences for deadly attacks, was a crucial part of the agreement. The ceasefire has so far held, reducing hostilities and allowing humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza.

This historic exchange marks a hopeful step towards lasting peace in the region, with both sides working towards further negotiations to secure the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.




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