Toronto's benchmark index shakes off trade volatility after Statistics Canada reports 0.6% retail sales growth and oil producers post robust second-quarter cash flows.

TORONTO, ON — The S&P/TSX Composite Index staged a sharp late-week rally Friday, climbing 254 points to close at 23,142 as domestic macroeconomic resilience and commodity strength outweighed anxiety surrounding Canada-U.S. trade talks.
Market optimism was bolstered by Statistics Canada reporting that total retail sales expanded by 0.6 percent in June to $74.3 billion, exceeding consensus estimates. Gains were broad-based, led by automotive dealerships, building materials, and clothing retailers.
"Canadian consumer fundamentals remain stable despite interest rate headwinds," noted BMO Capital Markets chief economist Douglas Porter. "Household spending resilience provides key support for domestic corporate earnings."
The TSX Energy Sector advanced 2.8 percent on higher crude benchmark pricing, while base metals producers gained on strong copper demand. Financial equities also rebounded as Canadian commercial lenders reported stable credit provisions and robust corporate loan volumes.
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