Canada budget deficit over first six months of 2025/26 rises to C$16.09 billion

Saba Capital has acquired shares in ASA gold & precious metals valued at $1.24 million, as reported by Investing.com. This investment reflects Saba Capital's strategic interest in the precious metals sector, particularly in gold, which is often viewed as a safe-haven asset in volatile markets.

Nine EU nations have expressed significant caution regarding 'Buy European' policies, urging a careful approach to avoid potential trade conflicts and economic repercussions. This stance reflects growing concerns about protectionism within the EU and its implications for international trade relations.

Canada’s stock exchanges are experiencing a decline, with the number of publicly traded companies decreasing for the fourth consecutive year, despite the S&P/TSX Composite index outperforming the S&P 500. This trend raises concerns about the vitality of the Canadian market and its ability to attract new investments.

Canada's real estate market is undergoing a significant reset, with prices dropping 17% from their peak and development activity in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver declining to levels not seen since the mid-2000s. This downturn highlights the challenges facing the sector as it adjusts to changing economic conditions.

The UK jobs market showed signs of slowing down in November, as indicated by a recent survey, raising concerns ahead of the upcoming budget announcement. This trend reflects a broader economic uncertainty that has been affecting various sectors, including construction, which has seen its sharpest slowdown since the first Covid lockdown.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is considering lifting a 53-year-old tanker ban to facilitate a new oil pipeline project from Alberta to British Columbia, which has raised significant concerns among First Nations communities about potential environmental risks and the possibility of a catastrophic spill.

The U.S. dollar faced significant pressure last week, reaching a five-week low as market participants speculated on a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. This decline reflects ongoing concerns regarding the dollar's strength amid fluctuating economic indicators and investor sentiment.

Wall Street closed with slight gains as investors reacted to economic data that supports expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut. The market's performance reflects a cautious optimism amid ongoing economic assessments, particularly focusing on inflation indicators.