Economy, Law & Politics

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stock indexes edged back from their record levels as a busy week for Wall Street picks up momentum. The S&P 500 fell 0.3% Tuesday after setting all-time highs for six straight days.

Business leaders and academics say they hope to see Canada and the U.S. maintain free trade protections for most goods once an agreement is reached, even if the negotiations can't stave off certain sectoral tariffs.

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.