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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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Stalemate in Gaza Negotiations: Hopes for Ceasefire Dim


Efforts to restore peace in Gaza have hit another roadblock, as the latest round of talks in Cairo concluded without any significant progress. Egyptian and Palestinian sources revealed that Hamas remains firm in its stance, demanding that any agreement must lead to an end to the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Israel has reiterated its position that the war will continue until Hamas is completely dismantled.

Despite the impasse, there were glimpses of potential compromise. Hamas reportedly showed some flexibility regarding the number of hostages it might release in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, the militant group has requested guarantees that Israel will engage in discussions for the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, which aims to end the war.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with intensified Israeli airstrikes causing widespread devastation. Civilians are bearing the brunt of the conflict, as rescue workers struggle to recover bodies from the rubble of destroyed buildings. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, leaving the population in desperate need of relief.

The international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that could pave the way for lasting peace in the region. For now, the stalemate persists, and the path to resolution remains uncertain.

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