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Trump's Tariff Shake-Up: Global Trade Faces New Challenges

On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping 10% tariffs on imports from all trading partners, marking a significant escalation in global trade tensions. These tariffs, described as "baseline," aim to address what Trump perceives as unfair trade practices and chronic trade deficits. While the announcement has sent ripples across international markets, the specific impact on Canada remains uncertain. Canada, a close trading partner of the U.S., has previously faced tariffs on steel, aluminum, and energy imports under Trump's administration. The new measures could further strain bilateral relations and affect key Canadian industries. Prime Minister Mark Carney is reportedly preparing Canada's response, as the trade war becomes a central issue in the upcoming federal election. Trump's move has sparked debates among economists and policymakers, with critics warning of potential economic fallout and supporters praising the tariffs as a step toward ...

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TSX Futures Point to Upbeat Open as Gold Shines; Powell Testimony in Focus

As the sun rises on the trading day, Canadian investors are keeping a close watch on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). Here’s what’s happening in the premarket:

1. Gold Continues Its Ascent

  • Gold futures are glittering, reaching an impressive $2,162.5.
  • Investors are drawn to the precious metal as a hedge against inflation and uncertainty.

2. Powell Takes the Stage Again

  • Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is back in the spotlight. His second day of congressional testimony is eagerly anticipated.
  • Yesterday, Powell hinted at potential interest rate cuts if inflation continues to wane. His words today could sway market sentiment.

3. Materials Sector Gains

  • The materials sector is poised for a sixth consecutive session of gains.
  • Copper touched a five-week high, fueled by better-than-expected trade data from China, a major metals consumer.

4. Oil Prices Slip

  • Despite upbeat Chinese trade data, oil prices are slipping. Expectations of delayed rate cuts are putting pressure on crude prices.

5. Bank of Canada’s Stance

  • The Bank of Canada (BoC) held its key overnight rate steady at 5%. BoC Governor Tiff Macklem emphasized that underlying inflation suggests it’s too early for a cut.
  • Investors find comfort in the expectation that inflation will ease in the second half of the year.

6. Descartes Systems Gets a Boost

  • Descartes Systems, a software company, saw its fourth-quarter revenue beat estimates. Four brokerages raised their price targets for the stock.

As the TSX gears up for the opening bell, all eyes remain on Powell’s testimony and economic data. Buckle up for a day of market moves and stay tuned for further developments.







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