National Business

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index posted modest gains Thursday ahead of the Easter long weekend, led by strength in energy stocks as the price of oil rose, while U.S. markets were mixed.

NEW YORK (AP) — Most U.S. stocks rose, but the worst drop for UnitedHealth Group in a quarter of a century kept Wall Street in check. The S&P 500 edged up 0.1% Thursday even as three-quarters of the stocks within the index climbed.

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia says it has cancelled contracts with two American companies and has not renewed agreements with another nine U.S. suppliers in response to the trade war launched by President Donald Trump.

CALGARY — The lead author of a new study pointing to more proof of water on Mars says it brings scientists a step closer to determining whether the planet was ever capable of supporting life.

EDMONTON — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's government is pausing the procurement policy it announced more than a month ago to fight U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs.

RICHMOND — The agency that provides air traffic control for Canada's airports says traffic flow at Vancouver International Airport has resumed normal operations in time for Easter weekend travel.

OTTAWA — The Supreme Court of Canada says it won't hear an appeal by the Alberta government regarding a decision to have its former energy minister questioned in a multibillion-dollar coal mining lawsuit.

Fubo Canada has retained the rights to the English Premier League with a new multi-year deal. The streaming service has been the Canadian home of the top-tier English soccer league since the 2022-23 season.

MONTREAL — First came the tariff threats. Then the annexation taunts. But it wasn’t until reports surfaced about foreigners being detained while trying to enter the U.S.

HUBBARDS — As night falls along the banks of the Fitzroy River, Tabitha Morrison pauses from dipping her net for baby eels, and explains why she believes Ottawa's rules shouldn't govern Indigenous fishers.