@ the Bell: Tensions abroad, caution at home
Canada's main stock index moved lower on Thursday weighed down by losses in consumer discretionary stocks, as investors remained cautious amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty over potential US involvement in the conflict.
Traders are now looking ahead to Friday's release of Canadian retail sales data for April, which will offer insights into whether consumer spending has remained strong despite ongoing concerns about tariffs.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump added to global uncertainty by refusing to clarify whether the United States would support Israel's strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, stating, 'I may do it. I may not do it.'
US markets were closed for the 'Juneteenth' holiday.
The Canadian dollar traded for 72.97 cents US compared to 73.01 cents US on Wednesday.
US crude futures traded $0.66 higher at US$75.80 a barrel, and the Brent contract rose US$2.15 to US$78.85 a barrel.
The price of gold was down US$19.64 to US$3,370.43.
In world markets, the Nikkei was down 396.81 points to ¥38,488.34, the Hang Seng was down 472.95 points to HK$23,237.74, the FTSE was down 51.67 points to ₤8,791.80, and the DAX was down 260.43 points to €23,057.38.
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