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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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Northvolt Bankruptcy Casts Shadow Over Quebec EV Battery Plant

Swedish electric vehicle battery manufacturer Northvolt has filed for bankruptcy, raising concerns about the future of its ambitious $7-billion battery plant project in Quebec. The company cited rising capital costs, geopolitical instability, supply chain disruptions, and shifts in market demand as key factors leading to its financial collapse.

Despite the parent company's bankruptcy, Northvolt North America, a subsidiary, has stated that it remains solvent and intends to honor its obligations. However, the fate of the Quebec plant, known as Northvolt Six, remains uncertain. The project, located near Montreal, was expected to produce battery cells and cathode active materials for electric vehicles, with operations powered entirely by hydroelectric energy.

The Quebec and Canadian governments had pledged significant financial support for the project, with investments totaling billions of dollars. Quebec's Economy Minister Christine Fréchette expressed disappointment but emphasized the government's commitment to finding a buyer to take over Northvolt's North American operations and revive the project.

The bankruptcy marks a significant setback for Northvolt, which had been a key player in Europe's efforts to reduce reliance on Asian battery manufacturers. The future of the Quebec plant now hinges on the decisions of a court-appointed trustee and potential new investors.

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