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Canada’s Jobless Rate Rises to 6.8% Despite December Hiring

          A employee sorts batteries on a conveyor belt at a recycling facility in Port Colborne, Ontario. Canada’s unemployment rate climbed to 6.8% in December , even though the economy added 8,200 jobs during the month. The increase in unemployment wasn’t driven by widespread layoffs but by a surge in the number of people entering the labour force and actively looking for work. December Highlights Unemployment rate: Up from 6.5% to 6.8% Employment: Net gain of 8,200 jobs Labour force: Expanded significantly, outpacing job creation Full-time work: Increased Part-time work: Declined Why the Rate Rose Economists point out that the rise in unemployment reflects renewed labour market participation , not a weakening economy. More Canadians felt confident enough to start job hunting, but hiring didn’t keep pace with the influx of job seekers. This marks the fourth straight month of employment growth , yet December also saw the largest increas...

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Wall Street Poised for Gains as U.S.-Britain Trade Deal Nears Completion

Wall Street is set for a higher open as investors react to news that the United States and Britain are on the verge of finalizing a trade agreement. The deal, expected to be announced at 10 a.m. ET, aims to lower tariffs on select goods, marking a significant step in trade relations between the two nations.

Market optimism is reflected in premarket trading, with Dow E-minis rising 0.75%, S&P 500 E-minis up 0.94%, and Nasdaq 100 E-minis climbing 1.32%. The agreement follows a pause in country-specific tariffs imposed by the U.S. last month, signaling a potential shift in trade policy.

Investors are also keeping an eye on semiconductor stocks, which have gained momentum amid reports that the U.S. may ease export restrictions on AI-related chips. Meanwhile, economic data shows a decline in unemployment claims, further boosting market sentiment.

As Wall Street prepares for the official announcement, analysts suggest that this trade deal could serve as a blueprint for future agreements with other global partners. The market’s response will likely depend on the specifics of the deal and its broader implications for international trade.



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