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Futures Slip as Geopolitical Tensions Overshadow Strong Bank Earnings

  US stock futures edged lower as investors balanced upbeat bank earnings against rising geopolitical unease tied to escalating tensions involving Iran. Contracts tied to the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded in the red, signaling a cautious start to the trading day. Major banks delivered solid quarterly results, with strong trading revenue and resilient consumer activity helping lift sentiment in the financial sector. Yet the optimism was tempered by concerns that potential US responses to developments in Iran could inject fresh volatility into global markets. Energy prices climbed as traders braced for possible disruptions. The pullback comes at a moment when investors are already navigating a crowded landscape of economic data, inflation readings, and policy uncertainty. With markets on edge, even strong corporate performance wasn’t enough to counter the broader risk-off mood.

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Life Expectancy in Canada Falls for Third Consecutive Year: What’s Behind the Trend?



 According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, life expectancy for the average Canadian at birth has fallen for three straight years, from 82.3 years in 2019 to 81.3 in 2022. This is a concerning trend that has been attributed to a variety of factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid crisis, and other health-related issues.

The drop in life expectancy is greater for men than for women, with men experiencing a decline of more than eight months compared to nearly five months for women . The opioid crisis is particularly affecting British Columbia and Ontario, which may be contributing to the decline in life expectancy.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on life expectancy in Canada. Preliminary data released by Statistics Canada shows that national life expectancy, which is estimated on an annual basis, was 81.7 years for those born in 2020, down from 82.3 the year before. The pandemic has led to increased mortality rates, particularly among older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

In conclusion, the decline in life expectancy in Canada is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. Efforts to combat the opioid crisis, improve access to healthcare, and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are all necessary to help reverse this trend.


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