Here are five things you need to know this morning
Oil rises on conflicting signals on Iran: Oil prices are climbing again and North American stock markets are poised to open lower after conflicting statements from Iranian and U.S. officials reduced hopes for progress on ending the war. U.S. President Trump has urged Iran to get serious about negotiations or face the consequences. Trump says Iranian negotiators are “begging” the U.S. to make a deal to end the war. However, officials in Iran say they have no intention of having talks with the U.S. WTI crude traded more than four per cent higher, and S&P500 futures indicated a decline of as much as one per cent.
Air Canada CEO apologizes: The CEO of Air Canada has apologized for his English‑only condolence video following the fatal crash at New York’s LaGuardia airport. Michael Rousseau says “despite many lessons over several years, unfortunately I am still unable to express myself adequately in French.” He added that he is saddened that his inability to speak French has shifted attention away from the grief of the families. The apology comes after Prime Minster Carney called the lack of a French statement very disappointing
BRP raises dividend after Q4 beat: BRP reported fourth‑quarter revenue and profit that beat expectations. The Quebec-based Ski‑doo and Sea‑doo maker increased its dividend to 25 cents per share, up from 21.5 cents per share. The company also lifted its 2027 revenue outlook, now projecting results above estimates. We’ll find out more when we speak with the company’s CEO, Denis Le Vot, Thursday on BNN Bloomberg at 1:10 PM ET.
Ontario budget day: Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy is expected to deliver the province’s spring budget later today, as a trade war with the U.S continues to chip away at the province’s economy. Last year’s budget focused on containing and mitigating the impact of U.S. tariffs through various funds designed to help impacted businesses and workers and by doubling down on infrastructure and critical minerals. Bethlenfalvy has said the plan is working and this year’s budget is expected to stay the course.
Rio Tinto shuts down Canadian diamond mine: Rio Tinto has shut down its last diamond mine, ending more than 50 years in the diamond business for the world’s second‑largest miner. The company confirms that the Diavik mine in the Northwest Territories has produced its final batch of stones. The closure marks Rio Tinto’s complete exit from diamonds as it shifts its focus to core commodities including iron ore, copper, and aluminum.
