Markets Rally into the Holidays
Happy Holidays from all of us at BTV!
Markets Rally into the Holidays
The holidays may be here, but markets are still moving. Softer U.S. inflation data has lifted expectations for early rate cuts, giving the TSX an extra push toward record territory. Ottawa is stepping in to support Canada’s resource sector, while trade tensions with the U.S. are shifting gears ahead of a high-stakes CUSMA review. Whether you’re rebalancing your portfolio or winding down for the season, it’s a moment worth watching.
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4 Minute Read:
Here's how some major markets/indexes performed in the last 5-days:
- Dow Jones: 48,253 (0.70%)
- Nasdaq 100: 25,336 (-.06%)
- TSX: 31,827 (0.74%)
- BTC: 87,948 (-0.25%)
- Ethereum: 2,992 (-2.22%)
(USD)
As of 12/19/2025 at 12:00PM PST
Stocks pop as soft inflation bolsters rate cut hopes
What happened:
Canadian and U.S. equities both rallied Thursday as fresh U.S. inflation data showed consumer prices rising less than expected in November. That strengthened market bets the Federal Reserve will start cutting interest rates as early as March.
By the numbers:
- The S&P/TSX Composite Index jumped 0.6% to 31,440, snapping a four-day losing streak.
- U.S. indexes also closed higher, with cyclicals and tech leading the way.
- Canadian financial and industrial stocks climbed 0.9%, while energy lagged, down 1.5%.
Why it matters:
Investors are pricing in a friendlier macro backdrop heading into 2026, where falling interest rates could help unlock more upside across equities. Lower rates reduce borrowing costs and can justify higher valuations, particularly for growth and dividend-paying stocks. If the Fed does pivot, expect portfolio positioning to shift fast— especially in rate-sensitive sectors like real estate, tech, and utilities.
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Ottawa Steps In to Shield Canadian Resource Sector
What happened:
The federal government is injecting $115 million into the Ekati Diamond Mine to keep the flagship northern operation afloat. The loan comes as diamond prices slide and U.S. tariffs rattle demand, especially for stones processed through India. The mine’s Australian parent had warned of major losses, with over 600 jobs, many in Indigenous communities, at risk.
Why it matters:
While the diamond sector faces turbulence, this loan signals Ottawa’s willingness to back strategic resource projects with long-term value. The Ekati mine still holds untapped reserves and strong infrastructure. For resource investors, it’s a reminder that select hard assets, especially those tied to critical supply chains and Indigenous partnerships, remain investable when paired with federal support.
As the world electrifies, XXIX Metal(TSX.V: XXIX) is working to ensure the copper supply meets tomorrow’s demand.
As global demand for critical minerals surges, Volta Metals (CSE: VLTA) is strategically positioned in Ontario, exploring lithium and rare metals in proximity to infrastructure and clean energy sources.
Tariff Talks Shift Gears as Canada Braces for CUSMA Clash
What happened:
Prime Minister Carney confirmed that one-on-one tariff talks with the U.S. are effectively on pause and will likely be folded into the 2026 review of the Canada–U.S.–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The U.S. has issued new trade demands, including calls for expanded dairy access, changes to Canada’s streaming laws, and looser restrictions on alcohol imports. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc is set to meet with American officials in January, but both sides are already preparing for a tougher negotiation process ahead.
Why it matters for investors:
This signals a new phase of trade uncertainty just as markets were digesting rate shift signals and stabilizing commodity prices. The CUSMA review could impact key sectors like agriculture, tech, and energy. Investors should prepare for volatility across industries sensitive to tariffs and trade restrictions, while also watching for opportunities in firms well-positioned to benefit from supply chain shifts or new cross-border access.
📢 This Week's Selected Company News:
Bear Creek Mining and Highlander Silver Announce Merger
Bear Creek Mining and Highlander Silver have agreed to merge, forming a leading growth-focused player in the silver sector. The combined company will hold a diversified portfolio of high-potential assets across Latin America, aiming to accelerate development and scale production in response to rising demand for precious metals.
Oracle Gains as TikTok Deal Nears Approval
Oracle shares rose following reports that its plan to acquire TikTok’s U.S. operations is gaining traction with regulators. The move, backed by former President Trump and reportedly accepted by Chinese officials, could position Oracle as a major player in consumer tech and digital advertising. The deal is expected to close in early 2026.
Cerebras Reportedly Prepping for 2026 IPO
AI chipmaker Cerebras is set to file for a U.S. IPO in early 2026, according to Reuters sources. The move comes as demand for specialized AI hardware continues to surge, positioning Cerebras to tap public markets amid renewed investor appetite for semiconductor plays.
📬 That’s a wrap for this week!
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2026 is already setting the pace. Canada struck a breakthrough trade agreement with China, easing tariffs and opening key lanes for agri-exports and electric vehicles, a move that could reshape cross-Pacific commerce. Meanwhile, gold took a healthy pause after a record-setting run, as upbeat U.S. data lifted the dollar and brought rate cut expectations back down to earth. Investors are watching closely, and so are we.
