Oil prices are rising due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, with experts warning of potential supply disruptions.

Real estate experts predict that the newly announced mortgage rule changes will likely increase demand in Canada's housing market.

Bank of Montreal's shares fell after the bank missed analysts' earnings estimates due to higher-than-expected provisions for potentially bad loans, which negatively impacted its U.S. operations.

Markets anticipate the Bank of Canada will implement interest rate cuts at its remaining decisions this year due to a faster-than-expected loosening of the U.S. labor market.

Canada’s S&P/TSX Composite Index has surpassed 23,000 points for the first time, driven by investor interest in value, commodity, and low-volatility stocks.

Mounting uncertainty surrounds the ability of Justin Trudeau's government to reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada, complicating fiscal and monetary policy decisions. The Bank of Canada expresses doubts about the timing and extent of these reductions.

A significant IT failure that affected flights, markets, and corporations globally has brought attention to the cybersecurity company CrowdStrike Holdings Inc.

Canadian stocks are experiencing a broad-based rally this year, contrasting with the U.S. stock market, which has been driven by a few key names.

BNN Bloomberg has launched a new and improved digital experience, emphasizing its commitment to providing up-to-date investor and business news, market data, and exclusive analysis for its audiences.

Senegal's newly elected President Bassirou Diomaye Faye intends to renegotiate oil and gas contracts with BP Plc, Kosmos Energy Ltd., and Woodside Energy Group Ltd. to increase state revenue. The country is poised to become one of the world's fastest-growing economies with the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project and Sangomar oil development. Faye's economic team is scrutinizing a past deal that transferred offshore fields to BP, questioning its validity. The IMF has adjusted Senegal's economic growth forecast due to project delays. Faye's victory follows Macky Sall's attempt to extend his presidency, which he claimed renegotiating contracts would be disastrous. Analysts advise the government to set clear objectives and communicate transparently during the renegotiation process.

Drone strikes in Africa have significantly increased civilian casualties, with 1,418 deaths in 2023 compared to 149 in 2020. African governments, facing insurgencies and equipped with drones from companies like Turkey's Baykar and China's AVIC, have been criticized for inadequate pilot training and intelligence failures. The proliferation of drones, partly due to Russia's war with Ukraine, has led to indiscriminate attacks on civilians, including in Mali and Burkina Faso. Experts and human rights organizations call for more responsible use of drones and better protection for civilians.

Drone strikes in Africa have led to a significant increase in civilian casualties, with 1,418 deaths in 2023 compared to 149 in 2020. African governments have been acquiring cheaper drones from companies like Turkey's Baykar and China's AVIC, often through bilateral security agreements. These drones have been used in civil wars and against insurgencies, but lack of pilot training and intelligence failures have resulted in high human costs. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have reported on civilian deaths from drone strikes, including in crowded markets and during funerals. The proliferation of drones is partly due to Russia's war with Ukraine, which has demonstrated their effectiveness. Non-state actors, including jihadist groups, are also using drones for attacks and surveillance. The international community, including the UN, is investigating the use of combat drones and their impact on civilian populations.

The NBA's African league, advised by former U.S. President Barack Obama, is facing significant financial losses and struggling to attract fans. Entering its fourth season, the Basketball Africa League is the NBA's only professional league outside the U.S. and its most ambitious international expansion since China. Despite some successes, the league faces challenges due to the popularity of soccer in the region and financial difficulties, including teams struggling to pay players on time. The league's expansion plans are threatened as funds raised in 2021 are depleting.

Senegal's main opposition politician, Ousmane Sonko, has been excluded from the upcoming presidential election, according to a preliminary list by the Constitutional Council. This decision could lead to unrest as Senegal is expected to be one of Sub-Saharan Africa's fastest-growing economies this year, with significant gas and oil production. The list includes 21 candidates, such as Amadou Ba and Karim Wade, while ex-Prime Minister Aminata Toure was also excluded. Sonko's exclusion follows a libel conviction, and candidates can appeal until January 16, with the final list due on January 20.

Former President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone has been charged with treason for his alleged involvement in a failed coup attempt in November. The attack resulted in 21 deaths and the escape of over 2,000 prisoners. Koroma's lawyer, Ady Macauley, argues that the charges are weak and based on assumptions. The trial is set to begin on January 17. Several others, including Koroma's former bodyguard, have also been charged in connection with the plot.

Gabon plans to exercise its preemptive right to purchase Assala Energy from The Carlyle Group Inc., potentially jeopardizing Etablissements Maurel & Prom SA's $730 million agreement to buy the company. This decision follows a military coup that brought Brice Oligui Nguema to power. The Gabonese government aims to boost revenue and assert sovereignty in the oil sector, with plans to execute the purchase through the state-owned Gabon Oil Company. Carlyle invested over $1.3 billion in Assala since 2017 to enhance production and extend reserve life.

Gabon plans to buy an oil company owned by The Carlyle Group Inc., leveraging its right to increase its stake as an existing shareholder. This move threatens Etablissements Maurel & Prom SA’s agreement to buy Assala Energy from Carlyle for $730 million, following a recent military coup. Interim President Brice Oligui Nguema announced the decision to exercise the state's preemptive right to purchase Assala, emphasizing national sovereignty in the oil sector. The Gabonese government intends to execute this through the state-owned Gabon Oil Company, though funding details remain unclear.

Interim Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema announced the state's decision to exercise its preemptive right to purchase the oil company Assala, a move aimed at boosting national revenue and asserting sovereignty in the oil sector. This decision follows the August coup that overthrew President Ali Bongo. Carlyle, which invested over $1.3 billion in Assala in 2017, faces uncertainty as the Gabonese government plans to execute the purchase through the state-owned Gabon Oil Company. The French company Maurel & Prom had previously offered the government an increased stake in Assala Gabon, expecting approval by the first quarter of the year.

Interim Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema announced the state's decision to exercise its preemptive right to purchase the oil company Assala, a move aimed at boosting national revenue and asserting sovereignty in the oil sector. This decision follows the August coup that overthrew President Ali Bongo. Carlyle, which invested over $1.3 billion in Assala, faces uncertainty as the Gabonese government plans to execute the purchase through the state-owned Gabon Oil Company. The French company Maurel & Prom had previously offered the government an increased stake in Assala Gabon, expecting approval by the first quarter of the year.

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau named a new cabinet, including Ilídio Vieira Té as finance minister, amid a power struggle with the opposition PAIGC party. The political conflict follows a foiled coup and is causing concern for stability in one of the world's poorest countries, which has experienced numerous coups since independence from Portugal in 1974. The nation is also known as a transit point for cocaine smuggling from South America to Europe.

An Abidjan court ordered the suspension of a conference where the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast was set to name a new leader, delaying the process. Former Credit Suisse banker Tidjane Thiam, among the candidates, assured supporters of his continued candidacy. The conference was postponed, with security forces blocking access to the venue. Other candidates include Maurice Kakou Guikahue, Jean-Marc Yace, and Noel Akossi Bendjo.

Tidjane Thiam, former CEO of Credit Suisse, is vying to lead the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI) and potentially become its candidate for the 2025 presidential elections. Thiam, who has a background in international banking and public service, faces competition from party veteran Jean-Marc Yace. The PDCI, out of power since 1999, seeks revitalization under new leadership. Thiam's campaign emphasizes decentralization and economic growth, despite challenges such as poverty. The party's congress, initially postponed due to irregularities, will determine the new leader.

Senegalese authorities have refused to reinstate opposition leader Ousmane Sonko on the electoral roll despite a court ruling in his favor. Sonko's representative was also denied access to necessary sponsorship forms for his presidential candidacy. The Interior Ministry and election body did not respond to requests for comment. Sonko has been involved in a legal battle after being removed from the electoral list following a conviction. Candidates for the upcoming February election have until December 26 to submit their applications.

Senegalese authorities have refused to reinstate opposition leader Ousmane Sonko on the electoral roll despite a court ruling in his favor, according to his lawyers. Sonko's representative was also denied access to necessary sponsorship forms. The Interior Ministry and election body did not respond to requests for comment. Sonko has been involved in a legal battle since being removed from the electoral list following a conviction. Candidates for the upcoming presidential election have until December 26 to submit their applications.

Former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam has won the leadership of Ivory Coast's Democratic Party, positioning him as a strong candidate for the 2025 presidential elections. Thiam, who has a background in international banking and public service, defeated his opponent Jean-Marc Yace with 97% of the vote. His victory is seen as a potential revival for the party, which has been out of power since 1999. Thiam's leadership is expected to address crucial challenges facing Ivory Coast, including economic growth and poverty reduction.

Former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam has been elected to lead the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI) and aims to return the opposition to power in the 2025 presidential elections. Thiam, who left Ivory Coast after a 1999 coup, defeated Jean-Marc Yace with 97% of the vote. Thiam's leadership is seen as a potential revival for the PDCI, which has been out of power since 1999. Ivory Coast has experienced significant economic growth but still faces challenges such as poverty. Thiam's career includes leadership roles at Aviva Plc, Prudential Plc, and Credit Suisse. He has pledged to work for a peaceful and prosperous Ivory Coast.

Newly elected Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye plans to renegotiate oil and gas contracts with BP, Kosmos Energy, and Woodside Energy to increase state revenue. The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project and Sangomar oil development are set to commence this year, positioning Senegal as a rapidly growing economy. Faye's economic team emphasizes the need for fair renegotiations, while former President Macky Sall warns against altering existing contracts. The IMF has revised Senegal's economic growth forecast due to project delays. The Natural Resource Governance Institute calls for clear objectives and realistic timelines in the renegotiation process.

Newly elected Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye intends to renegotiate oil and gas contracts with BP, Kosmos Energy, and Woodside Energy to increase state revenue. The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project and Sangomar oil development are set to commence this year, positioning Senegal for significant economic growth. Faye's economic team emphasizes the need for fair renegotiations, while former President Macky Sall warns against altering existing contracts. The IMF has adjusted Senegal's economic growth forecast due to project delays. The Natural Resource Governance Institute advises clear objectives and transparent communication in the renegotiation process.

Newly elected Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye plans to renegotiate oil and gas contracts with BP, Kosmos Energy, and Woodside Energy to increase state revenue. The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project and Sangomar oil development are set to commence this year, positioning Senegal as a fast-growing economy. Faye's economic team emphasizes the need for fair renegotiations, while former President Macky Sall warns against altering existing contracts. The IMF has revised Senegal's economic growth forecast due to project delays. The Natural Resource Governance Institute advises clear objectives and transparent communication in the renegotiation process.

The International Monetary Fund forecasts that Mauritania's extractive sector will nearly triple by 2025, driven by gas exports from the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project, developed by BP Plc and Kosmos Energy Ltd. The project, straddling Mauritania and Senegal, is expected to produce 2.5 million tons of liquefied natural gas annually in its first phase. This growth could make Mauritania the fastest-growing nation in Africa by 2025, significantly boosting its revenue and international reserves. However, delays and market fluctuations could impact fiscal revenue and debt profiles. The BirAllah offshore gas discovery could further enhance the country's gas industry.

Gabon plans to acquire an oil company owned by The Carlyle Group Inc., leveraging its rights as an existing shareholder. This move jeopardizes Etablissements Maurel & Prom SA's $730 million agreement to purchase Assala Energy from Carlyle, following a recent military coup in Gabon.

The International Monetary Fund forecasts that Mauritania's extractive sector will nearly triple its contribution to the economy by 2025, driven by gas exports from the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project. The project, developed by BP Plc and Kosmos Energy Ltd, is expected to significantly boost the country's GDP and international reserves. However, potential delays and market fluctuations could impact fiscal revenue and debt profiles. The BirAllah offshore gas discovery could further enhance the sector's growth.

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau named a new cabinet, including Ilídio Vieira Té as finance minister, amid a power struggle with the opposition PAIGC party. The political conflict follows a foiled coup and is causing concern for further turmoil in the country, which has experienced numerous coups since its independence in 1974.

Nigeria witnesses a historic political shift as Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) wins the presidential election, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) by 2.7 million votes. This marks the first time an incumbent president has been ousted since the end of military rule 16 years ago. Buhari's victory is celebrated across various regions, including Lagos and Abuja, while Jonathan concedes defeat gracefully. The election is largely deemed free and fair, except for irregularities in Rivers State. Buhari's leadership is anticipated to address issues like corruption, economic stagnation, and the Boko Haram insurgency.

Muhammadu Buhari has won Nigeria’s presidential election, defeating incumbent Goodluck Jonathan by 2.1 million votes. Buhari's victory marks the first time a sitting government in Nigeria has been voted out through democratic means. The election saw Buhari's All Progressives Congress (APC) party secure significant wins in key states, while Jonathan's People’s Democratic Party (PDP) struggled in its traditional strongholds. Despite some reported irregularities and violence, the overall election process was deemed free and fair. Concerns remain about potential post-election violence, particularly in northern states.

Nigeria's presidential election continued for a second day due to technical issues and sporadic violence, but no major incidents were reported. Difficulties included malfunctioning card readers, missing ballot papers, and violence at some polling stations. The election pits incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan against former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari. Buhari's All Progressives Congress (APC) reportedly won in Lagos and northern states, while Jonathan's People's Democratic Party (PDP) won in Ekiti state. Boko Haram's insurgency and a pledge of allegiance to the Islamic State remain key security concerns, while economic challenges persist due to falling oil prices and corruption. Election results are expected within 48 hours, and a candidate needs a majority of votes plus 25 percent in two-thirds of the states to avoid a runoff.

Nigeria's presidential election day was marked by Boko Haram attacks, technical difficulties, and delays at polling stations. Incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan and challenger Muhammadu Buhari are in a close race. Violence erupted in several states, with at least 15 people killed in the northeast. Security was heightened in Lagos, and voting was extended to Sunday in some areas due to logistical issues. The election is seen as the most closely contested in Nigeria's history, with fears of post-election violence.

Nigeria's upcoming election sees former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress challenging incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party. Buhari, aiming to attract young voters, promises to tackle corruption and security issues, while Jonathan emphasizes continuity. The election is marked by Nigeria's economic struggles, Boko Haram's insurgency, and a history of political tension. Both candidates have significant support bases, with Buhari's past and Jonathan's recent successes and failures shaping voter opinions.

Nigeria's presidential election on March 28 is a tight race between incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan and opponent Muhammadu Buhari. The government has closed borders ahead of the vote, and candidates are seeking support from Nollywood, Pentecostal churches, and oil-rich governors. Lagos is a key battleground, with its influential business leaders and large economy. Buhari is expected to win in the mainly Muslim north, while Jonathan has strong support in the Christian south. Security is a central issue due to the Boko Haram insurgency. The election was postponed from February 14, allowing more voters to collect their cards. Both candidates have promised reforms, but many Nigerians remain skeptical about the prospects for change.

Margret Yohanna recounts the harrowing attack on her village by Boko Haram militants, leading to widespread destruction and displacement. The insurgency has caused tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions, with Boko Haram expanding its territory in northern Nigeria. The Nigerian government, criticized for its inadequate response, declared a state of emergency in affected states. The insurgents' attacks have intensified ahead of the postponed presidential elections. Aid agencies struggle to support the growing number of internally displaced people, while the government faces criticism for not doing enough to combat the insurgents. Local initiatives like the Adamawa Peace Initiative work to provide safe havens for those fleeing the violence.