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Weekly Market Snapshot: Mideast Tensions and Chip Selloff Rattle Global Markets (July 13–17)

  Week of July 13–17, 2026 It was a rough week to be a tech investor and a good week to own oil. Escalating conflict between the US and Iran pushed crude sharply higher and rattled global markets, while a fresh wave of selling in semiconductor stocks dragged US and Asian indices lower. Closer to home, the Bank of Canada held its key rate steady, and the TSX—less exposed to chipmakers—held up noticeably better than its US and Asian peers. Here’s how the week broke down across every major market, and what it means for your wallet. 🇨🇦 Canada: TSX Day Close Change Mon, Jul 13 35,252.72 -0.15% Wed, Jul 15 (BoC day) 35,416.20 +0.27% Thu, Jul 16 35,340.15 -0.21% Fri, Jul 17 ~35,262 -0.22% Week total (Fri-to-Fri) — ~flat (about -0.1%) The TSX had a choppy but ultimately quiet week compared with its global peers. Monday's session opened with the Strait of Hormuz blockade headlines and closed lower. Wednesday brought a relief rally after the Bank of Canada's rate hold, with financials ...
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Ottawa Offers Early Retirement to Thousands in Effort to Downsize Public Service

 

People walk near the Place du Portage federal government complex in Gatineau, Que., in mid-November.


The federal government has begun notifying approximately 68,000 public servants that they may qualify for a new early-retirement incentive program, part of a broader plan to reduce the size of Canada’s public service. The initiative, announced under the 2025 budget, aims to cut about 40,000 positions from a peak of 368,000 jobs recorded in 2023–24.

Officials say the program is voluntary and designed to encourage natural attrition rather than impose layoffs, particularly on younger employees. Eligible workers will be able to retire earlier than usual without facing pension penalties, a move intended to make the offer more attractive. Departments will review applications to ensure that essential services remain intact.

The government has already reduced the workforce by roughly 10,000 positions over the past year through attrition and other staffing changes. By offering incentives now, Ottawa hopes to accelerate departures while avoiding disruptive cuts. Treasury Board officials emphasized that receiving a letter does not guarantee acceptance into the program, as applications will be vetted carefully.

This early-retirement initiative reflects the government’s broader effort to rein in spending and streamline operations. While unions and employees are still reviewing the details, the plan signals a significant shift in how Ottawa intends to manage its workforce in the coming years.

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