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Markets Update: Wall Street Takes a Memorial Day Pause as Asian Stocks Surge to Records

It's a split-holiday Monday for global investors. While American traders step away from their screens for Memorial Day — leaving the NYSE and Nasdaq dark until Tuesday — the Toronto Stock Exchange is open for business , and markets across Asia are delivering some of the most dramatic moves of the year. Here's everything you need to know before the North American week kicks into full gear. Canada — TSX Open While the US Rests The S&P/TSX Composite Index closed Friday, May 22 at 34,471.36 , up a modest 0.18%, as financials provided support heading into the long weekend. With Victoria Day already behind us (it fell on May 18 this year), the TSX is the only major North American exchange open today, which could translate into lighter-than-usual volumes as cross-border activity slows. The loonie was last quoted near CAD/USD 0.7242 , holding relatively steady as oil prices — a key driver of Canada's export revenues — remain in focus amid evolving Middle East negotiations. Wa...

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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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