Market Overview#
Canada's stock market faced a downturn at the end of trading on Friday, with the S&P/TSX Composite Index dropping by 0.91%. This decline was primarily influenced by losses in the Materials, Information Technology (IT), and Clean Technology sectors.
Notable Performers#
Despite the overall decline, some companies saw gains. Empire Company Ltd. led the way, increasing by 3.89%, or 1.84 points, to close at 49.19. Bird Construction Inc. followed closely with a rise of 3.78%, or 1.24 points, ending at 34.08. Kelt Exploration Ltd. also experienced a positive session, up 3.20%, or 0.29 points, to finish at 9.35.
Declines in Key Stocks#
On the other hand, several stocks faced significant losses. Methanex Corporation saw the largest drop, losing 10.16%, or 8.03 points, to trade at 71.03. First Majestic Silver Corp. fell by 7.88%, or 2.65 points, closing at 30.96, while Equinox Gold Corp. declined by 7.75%, or 1.68 points, to end at 20.01.
Market Statistics#
Overall, declining stocks outnumbered those that rose, with 577 stocks declining compared to 368 that increased, and 73 remaining unchanged on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The S&P/TSX 60 VIX, which indicates market volatility, rose by 5.32% to reach a six-month high of 21.39.
Commodities and Currency Update#
In commodities, Gold Futures for April delivery decreased by 2.09%, or 106.91, settling at $5,018.89 per troy ounce. Conversely, Crude Oil prices increased, with April delivery rising by 2.95%, or 2.82, to reach $98.55 per barrel. The Canadian dollar remained stable against the US dollar and the euro, while the US Dollar Index Futures increased by 0.75% to 100.50.