The S&P/TSX Composite Index climbed nearly 1%, moving back above the 36,000 level, driven primarily by strength in mining shares. The sector benefited from higher gold prices, with Agnico Eagle advancing almost 3%, Barrick rising more than 2% and WPM gaining 2.5%. Other notable miners also outperformed, including Kinross (+3%), First Quantum (+2.5%) and Lundin (+3%).
Financials were firmer as well, with the major banks posting gains despite hawkish comments from Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem following Wednesday’s rate decision. RBC, BMO, Scotiabank and CIBC each added more than 0.5%.
Technology stocks were broadly higher, mirroring strength in U.S. hyperscalers. Shopify climbed more than 1.5%, while Celestica rose 3%. Consumer names were mixed: Dollarama (+1.2%) and Weston (+0.5%) advanced even as Canadian services activity saw its sharpest contraction since February, whereas ATD slipped nearly 2%.
