Economy, Law & Politics

OTTAWA — Under pressure from the U.S. trade war and a slowing economy, Canada's provinces are all expected to run fiscal deficits this year — but a Conference Board of Canada report predicts those deficits will narrow in the coming years.

Businesses reliant on U.S. trade seek cover under trade agreement

WASHINGTON — Prime Minister Mark Carney said Monday that Canada's negotiations with the United States are in an "intense phase" after President Donald Trump achieved a critical agreement with the European Union days away from his tariff deadline.

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index fell to open the week as gains in energy were offset by losses in metals, industrials and utilities, while U.S. markets were mixed. The S&P/TSX composite index closed down 88.93 points at 27,405.42.

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks coasted to a quiet finish to begin a week full of potentially market-moving events. The S&P 500 edged up by less than 0.1% on Monday to set an all-time high for the sixth straight day.

OTTAWA — Former prime minister Stephen Harper said Monday he's urging Ottawa to find new trading partners outside the United States.

TORONTO — Five things to watch for in the Canadian business world in the coming week: Interest rates The Bank of Canada is set to announce its latest interest rate decision and monetary policy report on Wednesday.

OTTAWA — Avery Shenfeld doesn't think the Bank of Canada will cut its benchmark interest rate at its decision on Wednesday, but if it does, he said it will be a "pleasant surprise.

As fewer permits are approved, businesses scramble for staffing and migrants say they've been abandoned.