Equities in Canada’s largest centre climbed on Friday, lifted by investor optimism surrounding the initial trade agreement between the United States and the United Kingdom. Market participants are also closely watching the upcoming US-China meeting, which could have significant implications for global trade relations.
In the US, markets sunk after President Donald Trump signaled support for reducing tariffs on Chinese goods ahead of the weekend negotiations. While a steep 145 per cent tariff on China remains in place, Trump had previously implemented a 90-day suspension on increased tariffs for most other countries. Recent speculation suggests the administration may consider a substantial tariff reduction as a gesture to ease tensions and revive stalled trade discussions.
The Canadian dollar traded for 71.78 cents US compared to 71.84 cents US on Thursday.
US crude futures traded US$1.03 higher at US$60.94 a barrel, and the Brent contract rose $0.99 to US$63.83 a barrel.
The price of gold was up US$25.44 to US$3,329.44.
In world markets, the Nikkei was up 574.70 points to ¥37,503.33, the Hang Seng was up 91.82 points to HK$22,867.74, the FTSE was up 23.19 points to ₤8,554.80, and the DAX was up 146.63 points to €23,499.32.
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