Canadian payroll employment fell 0.3% in February, while job vacancies held steady at 497,200, with 3.1 unemployed persons per opening.
Wood Markets News
US Real GDP Increases at an Annual Rate of 2.0% in Q1, BEA Reports in Its “Advance” Estimate
US real GDP grew at an annual rate of 2.0% in Q1, according to the BEA’s “advance” estimate. In 2025Q4, real GDP increased 0.5%.
Ontario Launches 10-Year Roadmap to Support Forest Sector
Ontario launched a 10-year forestry roadmap, aiming to support jobs, boost competitiveness, and counter trade pressures.
The Conference Board US Leading Economic Index Declines in March
The Conference Board Leading Economic Index declined 0.6% in March to 97.3, following a 0.3% increase in February.
Bank of Canada Holds Policy Rate at 2.25%
The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25%, citing volatile financial conditions, higher energy prices, and ongoing uncertainty tied to geopolitical risks.
US Mortgage Rates Increase in the Week Ending April 30
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.30%, up from 6.23% the previous week, Freddie Mac reported.
US Weekly Initial Jobless Claims Decline in the Week Ending April 25
The advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial unemployment claims was 189,000, a decrease of 26,000 from the previous week.
US Housing Starts Climb in March; Permits Drop
US housing starts rose 10.8% in March to a 1.502 million units (SAAR), permits fell 10.8% to 1.372 million units, and completions were little changed.
Federal Reserve Leaves Interest Rates Unchanged
The Federal Reserve held its benchmark rate at 3.50–3.75%, citing solid economic activity, elevated inflation, and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.
Campbell Global Acquires Timberland in Louisiana
Campbell Global acquired 29,760 productive acres of commercial timberland in Louisiana, expanding its US South footprint.