TSX futures dip as Middle East tensions weigh on markets

Thursday 09 April 2026 - 11:30

Futures for Canada’s main stock index, the S&P/TSX, fell slightly on Thursday as investors assessed ongoing developments in the Middle East, while uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz reopening drove oil prices higher. June TSX futures were down 0.13% as of 5:22 a.m. ET (9:22 a.m. GMT).

Heightened geopolitical risks followed Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon and warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump of a potential escalation in the Iran conflict if peace efforts failed. Oil futures for Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate traded above $97 per barrel. Spot gold rose 0.3%, while silver fell 0.1%.

The U.S. Federal Reserve minutes from its March 17–18 meeting indicated openness to further rate hikes amid inflation risks, partially fueled by rising oil prices. Investors also anticipate the release of February’s Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, at 8:30 a.m. ET.

Canada’s TSX closed at a five-week high on Wednesday following a U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement, while corporate earnings such as Firan Technology’s strong quarterly revenue reinforced market optimism despite geopolitical uncertainties.