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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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Lobbying Surge Among Ontario Training Fund Recipients Raises Questions

David Piccini, Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development speaks as Ontario Premier Doug Ford listens during a funding announcement earlier this year. The government’s Skills Development Fund was criticized by the auditor general in a report Wednesday. 

Ontario’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) is under scrutiny as more grant recipients are turning to lobbyists to secure funding. Data shows that organizations receiving millions in taxpayer-funded grants have increasingly hired lobbying firms to advocate on their behalf.

In the program’s most recent round, a significant portion of the funding went to groups with political connections, raising concerns about fairness and transparency. Some organizations received large sums despite lower application scores, while others with stronger proposals were overlooked.

Critics argue that this trend suggests lobbying influence may be overshadowing merit-based decisions. Questions have also been raised about whether public money is being directed toward projects that genuinely serve workforce development, as some recipients have been linked to unconventional ventures.

The government maintains that the program is essential for addressing labour shortages and supporting Ontario’s workforce. Still, the growing reliance on lobbyists by grant recipients has sparked debate over accountability and the role of political influence in public funding decisions.


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