Global Markets
Canadian Markets
Canada’s TSX rose on the strength in the mining sector, as gold prices rose,, while oil prices were slightly negative, presurring the energy sector. The Fraser Instituteissued a report detailing Canada’s economic weakness is nationwide, affecting all ten provinces simultaneously, a departure from historical patterns where stronger provincial performance offset weaker regions. From 2019 to 2024, every province recorded negative or poor growth in inflation-adjusted GDP per capita, indicating a broad decline in living standards. Ontario, traditionally the country’s economic engine, averaged a slight contraction of -0.1%, while Alberta fared worse at -0.8% New data showed rents in Canada fell 2.3 per cent year-over-year in December to an average of $2,060, marking a full calendar year of declines as prices reached their lowest level in 30 months.
American Markets
U.S. stocks rose cautiously amid heightened market uncertainty. Investors are digesting the news that the Department of Justice has opened a criminal probe into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, creating tension around regulatory and central bank oversight. Financials were among the weaker sectors, as shares of major banks declined following comments from former President Donald Trump, warning that credit card issuers could be violating the law if interest rates exceed 10%, sparking investor concerns over regulatory risk and potential limits on profitability.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) report is due out on Tuesday, and is expected to provide further clarity on inflationary trends, with the market consensus anticipating that the Federal Reserve will hold interest rates steady, following a recent jobs report indicating labor market cooling without triggering a sharp economic downturn.
European Markets
European stocks traded mostly higher, supported by better-than-expected investor sentiment across the eurozone at the start of 2026. The improvement in morale reflects optimism over corporate earnings and regional economic resilience despite lingering concerns about inflation and monetary policy. Porsche shares fell 7% after concerns emerged regarding 2026 earnings estimates, pressuring automotive and luxury manufacturing stocks.
In the UK, the FTSE 100 closed at a record high, largely driven by strength in metals and mining companies, which boosted the index despite mixed domestic economic signals. Data released showed that UK employers reported weaker hiring in December but stronger pay growth, indicating ongoing wage pressures even amid slower workforce expansion.
Corporate Stock News
Allegiant Travel Co (ALGT:US) & Sun Country Airlines Holdings Inc (SNCY:US) Low-cost carrier Allegiant Travel will acquire Sun Country Airlines in a deal valued at approximately $1.5 billion, including debt. Sun Country shareholders will receive 0.1557 Allegiant shares plus $4.10 in cash per share, valuing the stock at $18.89, a 19.8% premium over its recent close. The combined company will operate a fleet of roughly 195 aircraft, expand its U.S. and international route network, and be headquartered in Las Vegas.
Alphabet In.c (GOOGL) Google reached a market capitalization of $4 trillion, a historic milestone that underscores the company’s dominant position in technology and its growing role as a leader in artificial intelligence. This achievement not only places Google among the most valuable companies in history, but also highlights the investor enthusiasm surrounding its AI-driven growth initiatives, including the rapid adoption of Google’s AI tools across search, cloud computing, and enterprise software.
Apple Inc (AAPL:US)
Global smartphone shipments grew 2% year-on-year in 2025, led by Apple, which captured a 20% market share, the largest among the top five brands. Strong iPhone 17 sales in emerging and mid-sized markets contributed to growth. Samsung ranked second at 19% market share, while Xiaomi was third at 13%. Early-year shipment pulls to avoid tariffs had little effect on second-half volumes.
AT&T Inc (T:US) & Verizon Communications Inc (VZ:US)
The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging FCC fines against wireless carriers for selling customer location data without consent. The dispute centers on whether the FCC exceeded its authority with nearly $200 million in fines imposed in 2024. Arguments and a ruling are expected by end of June 2026.
Exxon Mobil Corp (XOM:US)
President Trump suggested he might block Exxon from investing in Venezuela after the company’s CEO called the country “uninvestable” during a White House meeting. The remarks followed U.S. military action that removed Venezuela’s President Maduro.
Dollar General Corp (DG:US)
Jefferies raised its target to $165 from $142, citing improved FY’29 operating margin estimates (6.6% vs consensus 5.4%) driven by store cleanliness, in-stock levels, and Value Valley initiatives.
Nvidia Corp. (NVDA) Nvidia announced new AI partnerships with two biotech companies aimed at transforming drug discovery and manufacturing. The deals highlight Nvidia’s expanding role in AI applications beyond traditional tech, leveraging its platforms to accelerate pharmaceutical innovation. Nvidia’s stock remained near a key technical level as investors digest the potential impact of these collaborations.
Rocket Companies (RKT:US)
JPMorgan resumed coverage with a Neutral rating and $24 target, noting acquisitions of Redfin and Mr. Cooper expanded revenue streams and strengthened its mortgage origination platform.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSM:US) TSM saw its stock rise nearly 3%, boosted by news that the Trump administration is reportedly close to finalizing a trade agreement with Taiwan. Investors are optimistic that such a deal could ease geopolitical tensions in the region and provide greater certainty for global supply chains, particularly in the semiconductor sector, where TSMC plays a critical role.
Walmart Inc (WMT:US)
Walmart will replace AstraZeneca in the Nasdaq-100 Index on January 20, moving from the NYSE. The shift reflects better alignment with Nasdaq’s investor base and index benefits.
Wynn Resorts Ltd (WYNN:US)
CFO Julie Cameron-Doe will retire, with insider Craig Jeffrey Fullalove named her successor. Cameron-Doe will remain as consultant and non-executive director for Wynn Macau.
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