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Canada Holds Steady: Interest Rate Pause Signals Cautious Confidence

                      The Bank of Canada also held its policy rate at its last scheduled rate announcement in December. The Bank of Canada has opted to keep its key interest rate at 2.25% , a move that underscores a careful balancing act as the country approaches a pivotal moment in North American trade relations. With CUSMA (the Canada‑United States‑Mexico Agreement) negotiations on the horizon, policymakers appear intent on maintaining stability while assessing potential economic turbulence. The decision reflects a mix of optimism and prudence. Inflation has been easing gradually, giving the central bank some breathing room. At the same time, global economic uncertainty and the high stakes of upcoming trade talks mean officials are reluctant to introduce new variables into the financial system. By holding the rate steady, the Bank of Canada signals confidence in the economy’s underlying resilience while acknowledgin...
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Trade War Escalation Sends Markets Tumbling

                                            

The stock market faced significant turbulence today as futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq slid sharply. This downturn comes in response to China's retaliatory tariffs against the United States, following President Trump's imposition of hefty duties on Chinese imports. Beijing announced an 84% tariff on U.S. goods, escalating tensions between the world's two largest economies.

Investors are grappling with the potential fallout of this trade war, which has already roiled global markets. The S&P 500 edged closer to bear market territory, while the Nasdaq and Dow futures dropped by over 2%. Oil prices also took a hit, with West Texas Intermediate falling below $55 per barrel.

As the trade conflict intensifies, market participants are closely watching for signs of resolution or further escalation. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism about potential trade deals, but uncertainty remains high. The Federal Reserve's upcoming minutes and inflation data may provide additional insights into the economic impact of these tariffs.


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