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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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China's Tariffs Hit Canadian Goods: A $3.7 Billion Blow

China has implemented retaliatory tariffs on Canadian goods worth $3.7 billion, escalating trade tensions between the two nations. The new levies, effective March 20, target key Canadian exports, including rapeseed oil, peas, aquatic products, and pork. These tariffs impose a 100% surcharge on rapeseed oil and peas, while aquatic products and pork face a 25% duty.

The move follows Canada's imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products in October 2024. Beijing has criticized these measures as discriminatory and a violation of World Trade Organization rules.

Canadian industry leaders have expressed concern over the economic impact, particularly on the agricultural sector. Chris Davison, President of the Canola Council of Canada, described the tariffs as "devastating" for farmers and the broader value chain. The federal government has announced measures to support affected industries, including $1 billion in financing for the agriculture and food sectors.

This development underscores the growing strain in Canada-China trade relations, with both sides urging diplomatic engagement to resolve the dispute.

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