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Wall Street Futures Edge Higher as Soft Jobs Data Fuels Rate-Cut Hopes

  US stock futures ticked upward on Wednesday, extending Wall Street’s rebound as investors digested a weaker-than-expected ADP employment report. The data showed a surprise decline in private-sector payrolls, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve may move forward with an interest rate cut at its upcoming December meeting. Market Performance Dow Jones Industrial Average futures rose about 0.2%, adding 80 points to 47,624. S&P 500 futures gained 9.25 points to 6,849.50, up 0.14%. Nasdaq 100 futures advanced 25.50 points to 25,631.50, a 0.10% increase. Key Drivers The ADP jobs report revealed a drop in private-sector employment, signaling cooling labor market conditions. This bolstered investor confidence that the Fed will ease monetary policy, with markets pricing in nearly 88% odds of a rate cut next week. Tech stocks continued to provide momentum, with Nvidia and Marvell edging higher. Crypto-linked stocks surged, with PMAX up 67%, CMCT up 30%, a...

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Lockheed Martin's Proposal: Job Creation Tied to F-35 Fighter Jet Contract

 

Lockheed Martin, the U.S. defense contractor behind the F-35 fighter jet, has proposed creating additional jobs in Canada if the Canadian government commits to fulfilling its full order of 88 F-35 aircraft. This offer comes amidst ongoing discussions about the $19 billion contract, which was initially signed in 2023 to replace Canada's aging CF-18 fleet.

Currently, Canada has committed to purchasing only 16 of the 88 jets, with the first deliveries expected in 2026. Lockheed Martin's proposal aims to incentivize Ottawa to proceed with the remaining 72 aircraft by emphasizing the economic benefits of job creation. The company has highlighted the potential for roles in engineering, manufacturing, and other sectors critical to the Canadian economy.

However, the proposal is not without controversy. Prime Minister Mark Carney has ordered a review of the F-35 contract, citing concerns over trade relations with the United States and the geopolitical implications of relying on U.S.-made military equipment. Alternatives, such as the Swedish Gripen fighter jet, are also being considered, with some advocating for domestic production to boost Canadian sovereignty and job creation.

As the federal government navigates these complex decisions, the debate over the F-35 contract underscores the intersection of defense procurement, economic growth, and international relations.


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