Economy, Law & Politics

Physician assistants, who work under a physician supervisor, are common in other provinces and in the Canadian Armed Forces, but are new to hospitals in B.C.

EDMONTON — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, fresh off a weekend visit with U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, cautioned Ottawa against blocking energy exports to the U.S.

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index fell almost one per cent Monday, weighed down by losses in energy, technology and utilities, while U.S. markets were mixed. The S&P/TSX composite index closed down 231.41 points at 24,536.32.

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stock indexes were split on Monday as gains for oil-and-gas producers helped offset drops for Nvidia and other Big Tech companies. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% after erasing an earlier fall of 0.9%.

While both sides would be hit by a similar amount of economic pain in a trade war, Canada would feel it much more because its overall economy is much smaller, creating what one economist called an "existential threat."

TORONTO — A new report says the cost of insured damage caused by severe weather last year hit a record high as it totalled more than $8 billion.

Five things to watch for in the Canadian business world in the coming week, including Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly's trip to Washington and a speech from Bank of Canada deputy governor Toni Gravelle.

OTTAWA — The cost to send a letter in Canada is increasing by about 25 per cent, effective today. Canada Post says the cost of stamps for domestic mail bought in a booklet, coil or pane has increased by 25 cents to $1.24 per stamp.

With less than two weeks to go until Trump returns to the White House, it's still not clear how the Republican leader will enact his tariff agenda, but the International Economic Emergency Powers Act is one possibility.

Half of Canadians are $200 or less away from being unable to cover their monthly bills and debt payments, according to MNP Ltd.'s quarterly report on consumer debt.