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TSX Ends April Under Pressure as BoC and Fed Hold Rates Amid Iran Tensions

April 30, 2026 | Canadian Money Brief TSX Closes Lower to End April as Central Banks Hold Firm, Oil Stays Elevated Canadian equities slipped on Wednesday, with the S&P/TSX Composite Index falling 0.8% to close at 33,318 as both the Bank of Canada and the U.S. Federal Reserve held interest rates. Rate Holds on Both Sides of the Border The BoC kept its policy rate at 2.25%, maintaining a wait-and-see approach amid ongoing US-Iran tensions that are stoking inflationary fears. South of the border, the Fed held its benchmark rate in the 3.5%–3.75% range, citing the spike in oil prices and heightened economic uncertainty from the Iran conflict. Banks Dragged, Energy Lifted The rate holds weighed on Canada's big banks. BMO was down 2%, Royal Bank of Canada fell 1.3%, and TD dropped 0.8%. Energy stocks were a bright spot, however. Canadian Natural Resources gained nearly 2% while Agnico Eagle lost nearly 3%, as gold prices softened while crude surged. Oil and OPEC+ in Focus WT...

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Trump’s Controversial Stance on Crimea: A Path to Peace or a Political Gamble?


In a recent interview, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that "Crimea will stay with Russia," sparking intense debate over his approach to ending the war in Ukraine. Trump emphasized that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and others "understand" this position, citing historical ties and the region's predominantly Russian-speaking population. Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, remains a contentious issue in peace negotiations.

Trump has accused Zelenskyy of prolonging the conflict by resisting concessions, including the recognition of Crimea as Russian territory. Meanwhile, Russia continues its aggressive military actions, with recent drone strikes causing civilian casualties in Ukraine. Trump’s administration faces mounting pressure to broker a peace deal, with warnings that U.S. military aid to Ukraine could be at risk if negotiations stall.

Critics argue that Trump's stance undermines Ukraine's sovereignty and sets a dangerous precedent. Supporters, however, view it as a pragmatic step toward ending a devastating war. As the situation unfolds, the world watches to see whether this controversial strategy will lead to peace or further conflict.

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