Canadian Stocks Slide Amid Reopening Of Strait Of Hormuz, Higher U.S. Interest Rate Concerns

Canadian stocks fell as lower crude oil prices and a sharp drop in gold weighed on the energy and materials sectors. The decline in oil followed news of a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, easing supply concerns and pressuring crude-linked names. Gold also slid on expectations that U.S. interest rates could stay elevated or rise further, which hurt metal-linked stocks. The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished at 34,969.26, down 155.85 points, or 0.44%, after opening higher and then losing momentum. Sector performance was mixed, with healthcare leading gains while energy and materials were the biggest drags. Investors also watched U.S.-Canada trade talks over CUSMA renewal, with uncertainty around the pact adding to broader market caution. The article frames the move as a macro-driven risk-off session for Canadian equities, influenced by commodity weakness, interest-rate concerns, and trade-policy uncertainty.