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5 Things to Know Today: Canada’s Money Headlines

1. Bank of Canada expected to hold rates amid Iran‑war price pressures The Bank of Canada is preparing its next rate decision, with policymakers weighing inflation risks tied to the Iran conflict. Markets expect a hold as the Bank releases its new monetary policy report this week.  2. Oil & energy costs rise as global uncertainty persists Oil prices climbed more than US$2.50 as geopolitical tensions continue to influence global supply expectations. Canadian producers are also facing scrutiny, including Cenovus’s Newfoundland oilfield extension, which is projected to increase emissions by 21%. 3. Inflation pressures remain elevated for Canadian households Canada’s annual inflation rate rose to 2.4% in March , driven largely by higher gas prices. Rising costs continue to squeeze consumers, with food and essentials remaining stubbornly expensive.  4. Retail sales slow as Canadians pull back New data shows retail sales growth is losing momentum as households tighten bu...

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Resilient Workforce: U.S. Jobless Claims Dip to 213,000 Amid Stability

 

The latest data from the U.S. Labor Department shows that initial jobless claims fell by 7,000 to 213,000 for the week ending February 8, outperforming economists’ expectations of 215,000. This decline is a positive indicator of a robust labor market, where layoffs remain historically low, despite ongoing economic uncertainties. 

Complementing this data, January’s employment report revealed an increase of 143,000 nonfarm payroll jobs, with the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.0%. These figures suggest that businesses are largely retaining their workforce, a factor that has enabled the Federal Reserve to pause further interest rate cuts as it assesses economic conditions. 

While some sectors are experiencing isolated job cuts amid persistent inflation and cautious corporate strategies, the overall picture points to a stable and resilient labor market. The sustained strength in job retention continues to support economic expansion, even as policymakers and businesses navigate a complex economic landscape.

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