Published July 5, 2026 Your morning rundown on the Canadian economy, markets, and money moves — TSX hits a record close, CUSMA talks roll past the deadline, the first CGEB payment lands, and what to expect ahead of the Bank of Canada's July 15 decision. 1. TSX closes at a record high on gold-miner strength The S&P/TSX Composite climbed 0.9% to close at a record 35,275 on Friday, July 3, powered by gold mining stocks. Gold prices firmed after U.S. nonfarm payrolls for June came in at roughly half the expected pace, fuelling bets that the Federal Reserve could turn more dovish. Agnico Eagle, Wheaton Precious Metals, and Barrick all posted solid gains, while financials like Scotiabank and BMO also moved higher on easing oil-supply concerns. Why it matters: if you hold Canadian equity index funds in your TFSA or RRSP, resource and financial-sector strength has been doing a lot of the heavy lifting this year — worth knowing if your portfolio feels more concentrated than you'd...
Self-checkout systems, a common sight in modern retail, are undergoing a critical evaluation. Initially hailed for their potential to streamline shopping and reduce labor costs, these systems have also brought frustration and challenges. Here’s a brief look at the current state of self-checkout:
Customer Frustration: Some shoppers express discontent with the cumbersome technology and feel that checking out has become a laborious task, meriting a discount for their efforts.
Retailer Reactions: Some stores are imposing item limits at self-checkout stations, while others, like British chain Booths, are removing them due to customer backlash. Theft and loss prevention remain significant concerns.
Labor Implications: The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes a decline in cashier jobs, attributed to self-checkout and online sales. Some workers find the new system brings a different kind of monotony and concern for safety.
Technological Advances: Despite the issues, innovations continue. Kroger uses AI to detect scanning errors, and Amazon’s “just walkout technology” offers a checkout-free experience, hinting at the future of retail.
As the industry navigates these challenges, the fate of self-checkout hangs in the balance, with customer satisfaction and operational efficiency at the forefront of this retail revolution.
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