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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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Tragedy Strikes Iranian Port: Explosion Leaves Hundreds Injured

A devastating explosion rocked the Shahid Rajaei port near Bandar Abbas, Iran, on April 26, 2025, claiming the lives of 14 individuals and injuring over 700 others. The blast, reportedly linked to a shipment of sodium perchlorate rocket fuel, caused widespread destruction and raised concerns about safety protocols at the port.

The explosion occurred as Iran and the United States engaged in nuclear negotiations in Oman, adding a layer of geopolitical tension to the tragedy. Social media footage captured the aftermath, showing thick black smoke billowing from the site and shattered windows miles away. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause, but improper handling of hazardous materials is suspected.

Efforts to extinguish the fire continued into the night, with helicopters dumping water on the blaze. The incident has drawn comparisons to the Beirut port explosion in 2020, highlighting the risks of storing volatile chemicals in densely populated areas.

This tragedy underscores the urgent need for stringent safety measures and international cooperation to prevent similar disasters in the future.

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