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Ottawa's Parliament Hill, where the Carney government is rolling out Canada's largest fiscal stimulus package since 1980. / Photo: Unsplash. MoneySavings.ca  ·  Economy & Policy Monday, April 13, 2026  ·  Daily Edition Canada at a crossroads: oil shock, frozen rates, and a trade deal on the clock Canada's economy is navigating a uniquely complicated moment in 2026. A Middle East conflict has sent oil prices surging past US$104 a barrel, a once-in-a-generation fiscal stimulus package is being rolled out in Ottawa, and the clock is ticking on a renegotiation of Canada's most important trade agreement. For everyday Canadians, this means uncertainty at the gas pump, a central bank with limited room to cut rates, and a federal government betting big on public spending to kick-start growth. Here is what you need to know about the forces shaping the Canadian economy right now. 1. The Bank of Canada is stuck — and oil is why The Bank of Canada has held it...

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Markets Stall as Iran Tensions Weigh on Wall Street

 

US stock futures paused early Tuesday as geopolitical uncertainty surrounding the Iran conflict continued to shape market sentiment. Investors reacted to President Trump’s suggestion of a potentially swift resolution, which briefly eased concerns and pushed oil prices lower. However, reports of an oil tanker explosion near Abu Dhabi quickly revived worries about supply risks and regional instability. 

Market Snapshot

  • Dow Jones futures hovered just above flat after a volatile prior session that ended with modest gains. 
  • S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures slipped from earlier premarket strength, reflecting investor caution. 
  • Oil prices fell sharply on hopes of limited economic fallout but remain sensitive to Middle East developments. 

What’s Driving the Mood?

  • Geopolitical tension: Conflicting signals about the duration and severity of the Iran conflict are keeping markets on edge.
  • Energy volatility: Oil’s sharp swings continue to influence inflation expectations and broader risk appetite.
  • Recent turbulence: Markets have been whipsawed in recent days, with earlier sessions showing steep drops followed by partial recoveries. 

Why It Matters

Investors are navigating a fragile environment where geopolitical headlines can rapidly shift market direction. With oil acting as a barometer for conflict risk, even small developments can ripple across equities, commodities, and currencies.


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