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Weekly Market Snapshot: Fed Hikes, Oil Above $100 and the TSX Finally Snaps Its Losing Streak (Sept. 15–19, 2026)

  September 19, 2026 It was the week everyone was waiting for. The Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in three years — and almost immediately, markets started debating whether there's more to come. Meanwhile, oil pulled back from the week's highs but stayed well above $100 a barrel, and the TSX managed its first weekly gain after four straight weeks in the red. Here's everything that moved markets — and what it means for your wallet. 🍁 Canada — TSX Index Friday Close Week Change S&P/TSX Composite 35,806.65 +0.3% After four straight weeks in negative territory, the TSX finally caught a break — though "break" is generous. The index eked out a 0.3% weekly gain while closing Friday down 69.58 points (-0.2%), as rising bond yields and lingering energy-sector pressures kept the mood cautious on Bay Street. Financials were mixed: RBC edged slightly lower, TD rose 0.6%, but Fairfax Financial slid 2.6%. Gold miners pulled back after rallying shar...

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Netanyahu Announces Hostage Release Deal Amid Ongoing Conflict


In a significant development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that a deal has been reached to release Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. This agreement comes after intense negotiations and is expected to bring relief to many families who have been waiting for the safe return of their loved ones.

The deal, which is set to be implemented in phases, will see the release of 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, in the first six-week phase. In exchange, Israel will release Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails. The total number of Palestinians released could range between 990 and 1,650, depending on the number of hostages freed.

The ceasefire agreement, which accompanies the hostage release deal, aims to halt the fighting that has devastated Gaza, killed over 46,000 people, and displaced most of the enclave's population. Despite the agreement, Israeli airstrikes continued in Gaza, causing further casualties.

Netanyahu's announcement has been met with mixed reactions. While many see it as a necessary step towards peace, hardliners in Netanyahu's coalition have opposed the deal, viewing it as a capitulation to Hamas. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have threatened to resign if the deal is approved.

The Israeli cabinet is expected to give final approval to the deal, with the first hostages set to be released on Sunday. This development marks a crucial moment in the ongoing conflict and could potentially ease hostilities in the region.


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