Faces

Nvidia shares retreated to around $88 on March 13, 2026, from peaks near $97, even as the company showcased strong quarterly growth potential. Traders noted hits to high-growth names amid broader S&P 500 and Nasdaq declines of 0.5-0.67%. The pullback reflects risk-off sentiment from oil surges rather than company-specific issues. Investors eye upcoming catalysts like AI chip demand for rebound potential.

Hollywood is grappling with a severe production slump, mass layoffs, and growing anxiety over AI's role in filmmaking as the 98th Academy Awards approach on March 15, 2026, in Los Angeles. Industry insiders describe a febrile atmosphere exacerbated by corporate mergers like the potential Warner Bros. takeover by Paramount and Skydance, with Warner Bros. films 'One Battle After Another' and 'Sinners' tipped as frontrunners. The Oscars, while honoring artistic excellence, underscore deeper infrastructural issues amid political tensions including Trump's impact on the industry. Experts predict heightened uncertainty for post-ceremony production pipelines.

Three ideologically inspired attacks occurred in the past week: ISIS-inspired bombings at a New York City protest, a vehicle ramming at a Michigan synagogue by a Lebanese citizen, and a shooting at a Virginia university by a prior terrorism convict yelling 'Allahu akbar.' These incidents coincide with the US war against Iran, following strikes that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, and FBI Director Kash Patel's firings of dozens of agents, including those on Iran and Trump document cases, straining counterterrorism resources. A Pakistani was convicted last week for 2024 assassination plots against Trump under Iranian Revolutionary Guard orders, while Justice Department seized domains used by Iran for dissident killings. The threats elevate national security risks as midterm elections approach, with cyber attacks like the one on Stryker adding to concerns.

Canada's employment situation deteriorated significantly in February, with the national unemployment rate rising to 6.7 percent—a 0.2 percent increase from January and the worst monthly job performance in four years. Economic analysts attribute the decline partly to growing global volatility stemming from the ongoing Iran conflict and international tensions. The labor market weakness raises concerns that persistent inflation could worsen as geopolitical instability disrupts supply chains and energy markets. Canadian policymakers face mounting pressure to address employment challenges while managing inflationary pressures linked to rising oil prices and defense spending.