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Markets Slip as Investors Bet on Extended U.S.–Iran Ceasefire

  Stocks Edge Lower as Investors Hope U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Will Hold Stocks drifted lower today as markets balanced cautious optimism over a potential extension of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire with persistent geopolitical and inflation concerns. Recent trading sessions have shown that even modest signs of diplomatic progress can meaningfully shift investor sentiment. Asian and U.S. markets rallied earlier this week on hopes that Washington and Tehran would continue negotiations, helping unwind some of the war-driven risk premiums that had pushed oil and volatility higher. Despite the pullback, investors remain hopeful that the ceasefire—currently set to expire soon—will be extended, giving negotiators more time to work toward a longer-term agreement. Reports indicate both sides are considering adding another two weeks to the pause, a move that has already helped push Brent crude below the recent peak of nearly US$120 per barrel. Lower oil prices have eased pressure on inflation expecta...
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Modest Gains Expected in January: StatCan Prepares to Release Jobs Report

Statistics Canada is set to release its January jobs report this morning, and early estimates from economists suggest that Canadian employers may have added around 25,000 jobs last month. This forecast comes amid a cooling of business sentiment and a slowing in consumer demand, even as December’s report recorded a robust gain of 91,000 jobs and an unemployment rate decline to 6.7% .

Analysts anticipate that the unemployment rate could edge up slightly to 6.8% in January, reflecting the persistent economic headwinds that continue to impact hiring decisions. RBC Economics has noted that while the strong December figures provided an encouraging glimpse of the labor market's recovery, the January report is expected to reveal more modest employment growth. This contrast highlights an underlying slack in the economy, with many sectors still grappling with subdued consumer activity and external uncertainties.

Market watchers are also keeping a close eye on potential policy moves. Some economists, despite the encouraging data from December, believe that the Bank of Canada may still consider a modest rate cut later this month to help stimulate further growth. As the new report comes out, policymakers and investors alike will be assessing whether the current pace of job creation is sufficient to sustain the broader economic recovery or if additional monetary easing is warranted .


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