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Canada's Inflation Jumps to 2.4% in March — And Your Grocery and Gas Bills Show It

Canada's annual inflation rate climbed to 2.4% in March 2026 , up sharply from 1.8% in February, according to Statistics Canada data released Monday. The jump was driven almost entirely by soaring energy prices tied to the U.S.-Iran conflict and its disruption of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz — and Canadians felt it directly at the gas pump and grocery store. Headline CPI (March) 2.4% ▲ Up from 1.8% in February Gasoline (monthly) +21.2% Largest monthly jump on record Grocery prices (year/year) +4.4% Up from 4.1% in February Core CPI (ex-gas) 2.2% Milder than expected Gas was the main culprit Gasoline prices surged a record 21.2% month over month in March — the largest single-month jump ever recorded in Canada — as the U.S.-Iran conflict choked off roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply through the Strait of Hormuz. On a year-...

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Market Watch: U.S. Stock Futures Hold Steady Amid Trade Talks

U.S. stock index futures remained subdued on Friday following a strong rally in the previous session. Investors are closely monitoring upcoming trade discussions between U.S. and Chinese representatives in Switzerland, which could shape market sentiment heading into next week.

The recent rally was fueled by a new trade agreement between the United States and Britain, sparking optimism that similar deals could ease global trade tensions. However, analysts caution that the limited scope of the agreement raises questions about its broader impact.

Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged heightened risks of inflation and unemployment, leaving markets in a wait-and-watch mode. At 5:36 a.m. ET, Dow E-minis were down 48 points (0.12%), while S&P 500 E-minis and Nasdaq 100 E-minis showed slight gains.

Investors will also be keeping an eye on corporate earnings, with notable movements in stocks such as Trade Desk, Pinterest, and Expedia in premarket trading. The outcome of the U.S.-China talks could set the tone for next week's market direction.


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