A tense situation in the Middle East intensified over the weekend with the US bombing of three nuclear facilities in Iran. The US had been threatening to attack the uranium enrichment facilities for quite some time and in doing so, will have largely neutralized Iran. Of course, the threat of retaliation by Iran was immediate and in doing so, has created an environment of volatility for the global stock markets (at least for a short period of time). Specifically, it is likely we will see a surge in oil and gas prices, as Iran has threatened to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping lane which supplies one fifth of the world’s oil. This move could prove to be self-defeating to Iran as it relies on the movement of oil to drive its economic growth and stability within the region.
The Middle East conflict this week is likely to over-shadow the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, scheduled to be released this week here in Canada. Forecasters are predicting that inflation will stay below the Bank of Canada’s 2% target for the second consecutive month, but the central bank will want to see a marked improvement on the core measures of inflation coming down, after they came in higher than the 2% in April.
Throughout the summer we are likely to continue to face periods of uncertainty. As we have mentioned numerous times, market volatility in and of itself, is not a bad thing. It can create some unique opportunities for investors to buy into the market at a reduced rate and take advantage of certain sectors that will shine during the volatility. We believe that market resilience has been impressive thus far in 2025 and there several factors that will drive market growth higher for the remainder of the year. The key is stay invested and stay connected.
We have further information and an excellent article on the potential impact for markets if Iran responds to the US attack from this past weekend.
Home prices and affordability remains a key theme for the economy of Canada. We have an insightful article that helps you understand what will happen to mortgage rates if the US-Canada trade war ends. Check it out!
Younger people are living at home longer and longer these days. We have an article that helps to explain this growing phenomenon of 20-somethings living at home.
Is a $125 all inclusive Las Vegas deal too good to be true? It probably is but read about it in this article!
A Peruvian restaurant has been named the best restaurant in the world. What makes this place so special? Read more about it!
Wishing you all a wonderful week and an amazing Canada Day long weekend! Enjoy the time with friends and loved ones.
International politics generally get ignored by the stock markets as they seek to drive growth higher-and rightfully so. We have an interesting article that helps to break this down and explain why ever-changing news should not get in the way of market growth.
