@ the Bell: Markets Slip as Geopolitical Tensions and Central Bank Decisions Loom

@ the Bell: Markets slip as geopolitical tensions and central bank decisions loom

Canada’s benchmark equity index slipped on Monday as uncertainty surrounding stalled US–Iran negotiations dampened risk appetite ahead of a crowded week of central bank policy meetings, including one from the Bank of Canada. Over the weekend, President Donald Trump cancelled plans to send US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan for Iran-related ceasefire discussions, saying talks could be conducted by phone instead. An Axios…

A busy week for central banks should favour the buck

CAD The Canadian dollar finished last week on the front foot as data showed domestic retail sales grew 0.7% in February. But the loonie’s strength also reflected broad US dollar weakness; the closure of the DOJ probe into Chair Powell and optimism over Iran peace talks weighed on safe‑haven flows. The net result saw USDCAD dip back below 1.37, with the pair continuing to track lower this morning. For the week ahead, a Bank of Canada policy decis…