TORONTO – In recent trading on February 14, 2025, Canada's primary stock index, the S&P/TSX composite index, experienced a decline of over 100 points, reflecting a downward trend primarily influenced by losses in the energy and base metals sectors. The index was reported to be down 115.36 points, settling at a value of 25,583.15.

Across the border, U.S. markets displayed mixed results. The Dow Jones industrial average fell by 109.31 points, reaching a trading figure of 44,602.12. Conversely, the S&P 500 index exhibited a minimal drop of just 1.05 points, bringing its total to 6,114.02. In contrast, the Nasdaq composite index showed a slight upward movement, gaining 8.94 points to reach a total of 19,954.58.

In currency markets, the Canadian dollar was trading at 70.59 cents against the U.S. dollar, showing a notable increase from its Thursday position of 70.21 cents U.S.

Commodity prices reflected mixed trends as well. The price of crude oil saw a decline, with the March crude oil contract falling by 37 cents, trading at US$70.92 per barrel. Meanwhile, the March natural gas contract recorded a rise of 13 cents, positioning its value at US$3.75 per mmBTU.

The precious metal market faced pressure as the April gold contract lost US$28.70, decreasing to US$2,916.70 per ounce. Additionally, the March copper contract experienced a drop of 12 cents, settling at US$4.66 per pound.

This analysis underscores the challenges faced by Canada's stock market amid sector-specific pressures, particularly in energy and base metals. The mixed performances in U.S. markets also reflect a broader uncertainty in the financial landscape, contributing to the fluctuating values observed in commodities and currency. Industry participants will be keenly monitoring these developments as they navigate their trading strategies in an evolving market environment.