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Markets Digest Iran Peace Progress and Fed Rate-Hike Risk — June 22, 2026

  Markets are easing into a cautious start this Monday as investors return from a long weekend — U.S. markets were closed Friday for Juneteenth — and assess a mixed backdrop: tentative optimism over U.S.–Iran peace talks, a newly hawkish Federal Reserve, and a key week of economic data and earnings ahead. Oil is steadying, the Canadian dollar is under modest pressure, and Asian markets rallied while European and U.S. futures drifted slightly lower in early trading. 🍁 Canada — TSX & the Loonie The S&P/TSX Composite Index heads into Monday trading with a cautious tone, sitting near the 34,857 level after slipping 0.32% on Thursday — the last day Canadian markets were open. Energy stocks will be in focus as oil prices stabilize following weeks of volatility tied to the U.S.–Iran conflict and the partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The Canadian dollar is trading at approximately 70.52 cents U.S. (CAD/USD: 0.7052), down about 0.22% on the session. The loonie remains und...

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U.S. Envoy Excludes Europe from Ukraine Peace Talks

In a surprising move, the U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, announced that Europe will not be part of the upcoming peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This decision has sparked concerns among European leaders, who fear being sidelined in discussions that directly impact their security.

The announcement was made during the Munich Security Conference, where Kellogg emphasized that the U.S. would act as an intermediary, with Ukraine and Russia as the primary negotiators. He stated that while European interests would be considered, they would not have a seat at the negotiation table.

European leaders have expressed their dissatisfaction with this decision, urging for more involvement in the peace process. Finland's President Alexander Stubb highlighted the importance of European participation in discussions about Ukraine's future and the broader European security structure. Despite these concerns, the U.S. administration remains firm in its stance, prioritizing other global challenges such as border security and countering China.

The exclusion of Europe from the peace talks has raised questions about the future of transatlantic relations and the role of European nations in addressing regional conflicts. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the dynamics of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the broader geopolitical landscape.



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