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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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Federal Immigration Department Announces Major Job Cuts


Two federal public service unions have revealed that the Immigration Department is set to cut over 3,300 jobs over the next three years. The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Canada Employment and Immigration Union issued a joint statement expressing concern over the lack of information regarding who will be affected by the cuts.

The unions emphasized that the department's staff are essential for processing citizenship and permanent residency applications, issuing passports, and conducting interviews. They urged the government to reduce outside contracting instead of downsizing staff.

The job cuts are part of the government's broader effort to refocus federal spending, which has been ongoing since 2023. The unions are calling for transparency and a reconsideration of the cuts, highlighting the potential impact on the department's ability to fulfill its duties.

Affected employees are expected to be notified in mid-February, with letters being sent out to those impacted. The unions continue to advocate for their members and push for alternative solutions to achieve budgetary goals.



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