Canada flag (representative image)

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shake up global stock markets, investors are increasingly looking to Canada, a report has said, adding that the country’s main stock index – the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) – has emerged as a safe haven for investors that have been impacted by the AI-driven selloff hitting American markets.According to a report by news agency Reuters, the shares of software and technology companies are considered vulnerable to being replaced or disrupted by AI have been falling for months, dragging down major indices like the S&P 500. The Canadian market, on the other hand is dominated by banks, energy companies, miners, railways, and utilities – the kind of heavy, capital-intensive industries that are far less exposed to AI disruption. This comes as advanced AI tools like Claude caused investors to rethink the value of software companies, after one of its AI-powered solutions wiped trillions of dollars from software market – essentially ‘forcing’ investors to seek ‘shelter’ in a market defined by physical assets that a computer program cannot replace – like oil sands operation or a freight railway cannot be replaced with a chatbot.

The rise of the ‘HALO’ stocks

According to the report, the current trend is all about HALO, or Heavy Assets and Low Obsolescence, stocks. Essentially, these are businesses that own “stuff” in the real world. While the US S&P 500 is heavily weighted toward technology (only 16% HALO stocks), the TSX has 51% of its value tied to energy, metals, industrials and utilities.“The knock on the TSX forever has been that we don’t have enough tech… and that now is what everyone wants to buy,” Greg Taylor, Chief Investment Officer at PenderFund Capital Management, was quoted as saying. In 2025, the Toronto market climbed 28%, nearly doubling the 16% gain seen by the S&P 500. This outperformance is driven by two main factors. The first is safety from AI disruption, and the second is productivity boost due to AI as Canada’s big companies are using the technology to become more efficient. Citing Statistics Canada, the report said that foreign investment in Canadian stocks jumped to C$17.2 billion ($12.7 billion) in the final months of 2025, which is a 132% increase from the previous quarter. Sectors like energy have been risen 28% so far this year.

The T20 World Cup 2026 Final will be remembered for India’s historic 96-run victory over New Zealand, but a heated exchange between Arshdeep Singh and Daryl Mitchell has sparked a deeper conversation about the spirit of cricket. Following a flare-up that resulted in a 15% match-fee fine and a demerit point for Arshdeep, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has weighed in with a characteristically blunt verdict: he wouldn’t have cared if the apology never happened.

The incident unfolded during the 11th over of New Zealand’s chase. After being smoked for two consecutive sixes by Mitchell, Arshdeep’s competitive fire boiled over. Following the fifth delivery, a throw from the bowler struck Mitchell, leading to a visible confrontation. While Arshdeep later offered a heartfelt apology, captured in a viral video by the BlackCaps, Gambhir believes the raw emotion displayed is exactly what high-stakes cricket demands.

Gautam Gambhir breaks silence on Arshdeep Singh’s on-field gesture to Daryl Mitchell

Gambhir has never been one to shy away from on-field friction, and his coaching style reflects that grit. Speaking to ANI, Gambhir made it clear that while he respects Arshdeep’s sportsmanship, he prioritizes the killer instinct required to defend a world title.

“You’re representing your country. You’re bound to show aggression. There’s nothing wrong with that,” Gambhir stated to ANI. He emphasized that no elite bowler enjoys being hit for boundaries, and the subsequent reaction was a natural byproduct of elite competition. For Gambhir, the apology was a nice gesture, but entirely optional. He added, “Even if sorry is not said, I was absolutely fine with it. On a cricket field, there are no friends.”

This white-line fever approach is a hallmark of the current Indian setup. By backing Arshdeep, Gambhir is sending a clear message to his squad: intensity is a requirement, not a recommendation. While the ICC viewed the incident as a breach of the Code of Conduct, the Indian camp views it as the heartbeat of a champion side.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir hits back at Kirti Azad for questioning India team’s temple visit after T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

India defend the T20I crown with a record-breaking triumph

Beyond the disciplinary drama, the 2026 final cemented India’s status as a T20 powerhouse. By defeating the BlackCaps, India became the first men’s team to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title, following their 2024 glory. Chasing a massive 256, New Zealand was dismantled for 159, with the pressure applied by Arshdeep and his fellow pacers proving too much for the Kiwis to handle.

Arshdeep, despite the 0/32 figures and the mid-match tension, remained a pivotal figure in the campaign. His post-match interaction with Mitchell, where he joked that his throw reverse-swung into the batter, showed a level of maturity that balanced Gambhir’s requested aggression.

The fine might lighten Arshdeep’s wallet, but Gambhir’s public support likely strengthens the youngster’s resolve. As India celebrates its third T20 World Cup trophy, the narrative has shifted from a disciplinary slip-up to a discussion on the evolving identity of Indian cricket: a team that wins with skill, but isn’t afraid to show its teeth when the heat is on.

Also WATCH: Ishan Kishan reacts after Kirti Azad questions Indian team’s temple visit following T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

Hardeep Singh Puri speaks in Lok Sabha during Budget session of Parliament

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri told Lok Sabha on Thursday that India remains well prepared to manage disruptions in global energy supplies triggered by the ongoing West Asia conflict, assuring lawmakers that domestic fuel availability and power generation are fully protected, while urging to avoid rumours.Addressing the House amid protests from Opposition members, Puri said the government has ensured adequate production and alternative supply arrangements to sustain energy needs even if the conflict persists. “India has sufficient gas production and supply arrangements to sustain this position even in the event of a prolonged conflict. Power generation for every household and for industry is fully protected,” said Puri.The union minister added that the hostilities have effectively shut commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route that typically carries about 20 per cent of the world’s crude oil, natural gas and LPG. Despite the disruption, with around 45 per cent of India’s crude imports earlier passing through the route, the country has managed to stabilise supplies by increasing alternative sourcing. He said that “Non-Hormuz sourcing has risen to approximately 70 per cent of crude imports, up from 55 per cent before the conflict began”.Puri attributed the resilience partly to long-term diversification of crude suppliers, noting that India now imports oil from 40 countries compared with 27 in 2006-07. He assured the House that “There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, ATF or fuel oil. The availability of petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, kerosene, and fuel oil is fully assured,” adding that domestic refineries are operating at high capacity utilisation, in some cases “exceeding 100 per cent”.He furtherurged the public and political stakeholders to avoid spreading misinformation during the ongoing energy crisis triggered by the West Asia conflict, stressing that the government’s preparedness and response mechanisms are working effectively. “This is not the moment for rumour-mongering or fake narratives. India is navigating the most severe global energy disruption in recorded history. Fuel supply is flowing, gas is prioritised for homes and farms, and LPG production has been stepped up by 28%. Consumer prices are being held far below what market trends and regional competitors would otherwise dictate. Schools are open and petrol is available at fuel stations… India must stand united behind the energy workers, behind the institutions managing the crisis, and behind the national interest. The record of preparation and the record of response speak for themselves.” he said.On natural gas supplies, the minister said the government has introduced a prioritised allocation system under the Natural Gas Control Order issued on March 9. While a major facility in Qatar has declared force majeure on 30 MMSCMD of gas imports, domestic production remains steady at 90 MMSCMD.“Domestic piped gas to homes and CNG for vehicles receive 100 per cent supply with no cuts. Industrial and manufacturing consumers will receive upto 80 per cent of their previous six-month average. Fertiliser plants will receive upto 70 per cent, protecting the agricultural input chain ahead of the sowing season. Refineries and petrochemical units absorb a managed reduction, with that gas redirected to higher-priority sectors. I am pleased to inform the House that the shortfall has been substantially offset through alternative procurement,” Puri said.The government has also taken steps to safeguard LPG availability for around 33 crore households. According to the minister, domestic LPG output has been ramped up by 28 per cent in the past five days following refinery directives. To curb hoarding and regulate demand, authorities have introduced a minimum 25-day gap between LPG cylinder bookings in urban areas and expanded the Delivery Authentication Code system to cover 90 per cent of consumers.Puri also clarified that the delivery cycle for domestic LPG remains unaffected. “Domestic supply is fully protected, and the delivery cycle is unchanged. The standard time from booking to delivery for domestic LPG cylinders remains 2.5 days, unchanged from pre-crisis norms,” he said.To further reduce pressure on gas supplies, the government has activated alternate fuel options. Kerosene is being made available through public distribution system channels, while the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has “advised State Pollution Control Boards to permit, for the duration of this crisis period, the use of biomass, RDF pellets, and Kerosene/coal as alternate fuels for the hospitality and restaurant segment for 1 month, which would enable a wider range of establishments to switch and free up LPG for priority consumers,” Puri added.

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NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha on Thursday witnessed a fiery showdown after the leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi was cut short during his speech for targeting oil and petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri over the alleged appearance of his name in the Epstein files.While speaking on the energy crisis due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, Rahul questioned why New Delhi would allow any external power to influence its energy relationships, particularly regarding purchases from Russia.“The foundation of every single nation is its energy security. Allowing the United States to decide who we buy oil from, who we buy gas from, and whether we can buy oil from Russia or not,” Rahul said.“Our relationship with different oil suppliers can be decided by us. This is what has been bartered. Why would a nation the size of India allow any other nation, the President of another nation, to give us permission to buy Russian oil or to decide who our relationships are with,” he added.During his speech, Rahul also levelled allegations against Puri. Soon, Speaker Om Birla interjected and asked the LoP to stick to the issue on which he had served his notice.“I have a copy of the notice given by the Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi regarding the gas shortage in the country, and I allowed him to speak on that subject. However, despite being a responsible leader of the opposition, discussing other issues without notice is not within the procedures and rules of Parliament,” Birla said.“I am urging you again, and Parliament will not function this way. Parliament will function according to rules and procedures,” he added.This comes days after the opposition accused the Chair of denying speaking time to Rahul in the first part of the Budget session.This led the opposition to move a no-confidence motion against Birla. The move was, however, defeated by a voice vote amid protests and sloganeering by opposition members.

PC: Play Station Official Website

March’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue is shaping up to be quite the treat. It seems there’s something for everyone this month, whether you’re into brutal third-person shooters, classic JRPGs, or even arcade fighting. Fans of Warhammer, NFL, and Persona might be especially excited, but there’s plenty more tucked in here. Sony’s latest State of Play announcement teased the full list, and it’s set to go live on March 17. From chaotic galactic warfare to stylish Tokyo heists, the March catalogue seems packed, diverse, and maybe even a little overwhelming for anyone who likes to play it all.There are big names, some under-the-radar gems, and one or two titles you might have forgotten existed.

PlayStation Plus games catalogue 2026 revealed

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 drops players into a galaxy under siege. You step into the armour of Space Marine Titus and face off against relentless Tyranid swarms. It’s gory, fast-paced, and reportedly packed with hundreds of enemies on screen. The campaign appears endlessly replayable, with PvE missions supporting up to three players. Six classes to choose from, each with unique skills and cosmetics. And then there’s 6v6 PvP. It seems like a game you’ll either dive into solo or lose hours coordinating with friends.The developers behind World War Z are at it again. Fans of big, messy combat might find themselves glued to the screen.

Madden NFL 26: Gridiron Upgraded

For football lovers, EA Sports Madden NFL 26 is reportedly taking the field with a new AI-driven system. Player movements and tactics are designed to reflect nearly a decade of real NFL plays. Saquon Barkley-style bursts upfield, quarterback strategy adaptations, and traits for individual players all aim to make it feel alive. It seems like a big deal for those who care about realism in sports games. The All-Madden legacy feels alive. If you’ve ever wanted to play like the pros, this might be your chance.

Persona 5 Royal: Stylish Heists

Persona 5 Royal returns with all the flair the series is known for. Tokyo feels alive, the Phantom Thieves are back, and the story is expanded with new characters, confidants, and story arcs. There’s even a grappling hook mechanic now. It seems small, but it changes how you move through dungeons. Persona 5 Royal Ultimate Edition adds extra DLC, costumes, battles, and Personas. For long-time fans, it’s basically a deluxe return trip. For newcomers, it might be a little overwhelming.

Blasphemous 2: Gothic Adventure

Blasphemous 2 takes players on a dark, punishing journey. The Penitent One awakens in a strange land and must face grotesque enemies and titanic bosses. Choices apparently matter, but there’s no “wrong” path, just one filled with brutal encounters. It is designed for those who like a challenge. Expect tight controls, dark art, and an eerie soundtrack. If gothic platforming is your thing, this one reportedly delivers.

PlayStation Plus has something for every taste

Metal Eden is reportedly a sci-fi FPS with cybernetic warfare and a suicide mission vibe. Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria lets you explore procedurally generated dwarven mines, solo or with friends. Astroneer encourages creativity with fully deformable planets, letting players reshape worlds with ease.PlayStation Plus Premium gets a classic throwback with Tekken Dark Resurrection. It seems like a fun way to relive arcade-style 3D fighting, complete with quirky modes like Tekken Bowl and the familiar story battles.

The United States military is not yet ready to escort commercial oil tankers through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, as its resources are currently focused on operations against Iran, US energy secretary Chris Wright said on Thursday.Speaking to CNBC, Wright said the US military’s immediate priority is targeting Iran’s offensive capabilities and the industries supporting them.

“It’ll happen relatively soon, but it can’t happen now. We’re simply not ready,” Wright said. “All of our military assets right now are focused on destroying Iran’s offensive capabilities and the manufacturing industry that supplies their offensive capabilities,” he said.

He added that escort operations for commercial vessels could begin “quite likely” by the end of the month.A day earlier, when a reporter asked Trump if he was encouraging the CEOs of oil companies to use the Strait of Hormuz right now, Trump said, “I think they should, I think they should.” When asked if Iran has laid any mines in the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “We don’t think so.”Meanwhile, the United States Central Command said earlier this week that US forces had “eliminated” 16 Iranian vessels suspected of laying naval mines near the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came as Donald Trump warned Tehran that any mines placed in the key maritime corridor must be removed immediately.Trump had warned Iran would face military consequences if mines were deployed in the waterway, a crucial route for global energy shipments. About one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes through the narrow strait.In a post on Truth Social, Trump on Wednesday also said the US was using technologies previously deployed against drug trafficking networks to “permanently eliminate” any vessel attempting to mine the strait.The Pentagon confirmed that US forces had been striking Iranian mine-laying vessels and storage facilities as part of the broader conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.The fighting has already disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about global energy supplies and pushing oil prices higher.Earlier this week, General Dan Caine said the US military had begun examining options for escorting commercial ships through the strait if ordered to do so.“We’re looking at a range of options there,” Caine had told reporters at the Pentagon.However, sources told Reuters that the US navy has so far declined repeated requests from shipping companies seeking military escorts through the waterway.Confusion briefly emerged on Tuesday after Wright posted on X that the US Navy had escorted an oil tanker through the strait, before later deleting the post.The White House later clarified that the US has not yet escorted any commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that no such escort operation had taken place so far.

NOIDA: A fast-track court has acquitted a Delhi-based HR manager accused of rape after the complainant retracted her allegations during trial, telling the court that the police had drafted the complaint themselves.Additional sessions judge Priyanka Singh also ordered proceedings against the woman under Section 344 of the Code of Criminal Procedure for filing a false case and giving false evidence.An FIR in the case was registered at the Phase III police station in Noida on March 25, last year. In her complaint, the woman alleged that her colleague, HR manager Karan Gujral, had first raped her in 2023 after allegedly mixing an intoxicant in her food and drink. She claimed that he repeatedly called her to a hotel and raped her for more than a year on the promise of marriage.According to the FIR, the two later married at a temple in Feb 2024 and began living together. The woman told police that she became pregnant in Nov but the accused later stopped responding to her calls. When she approached his family, she was allegedly told that he was already married.Police registered a case under IPC Section 376 and recorded her statement before a magistrate under Section 164 of the CrPC. The accused was arrested on April 4, and the chargesheet was filed 10 days later. The case was subsequently transferred to a fast-track court for trial.However, the prosecution’s case weakened when the complainant took the witness stand. During her testimony, she contradicted the claims made in the FIR and said she had been working at the same company where the accused served as HR manager. She told the court that her job had not been regularised and she was upset about the delays in salary payments.The woman said that colleagues had advised her to approach the police. When she went to the station with company officials to complain about the salary dispute, she alleged, the police themselves drafted the FIR. She also told the court that the statements recorded before the magistrate had been made at the police’s behest.During cross-examination, she denied that the accused had called her to hotels or had sexual relations with her. She also admitted that she had never met him alone. The woman acknowledged that she was about six months pregnant when the FIR was filed, but said the child was not fathered by the accused.The prosecution declared her a hostile witness, but the court noted that her testimony substantially undermined the case.Medical evidence also failed to support the allegations. The doctor who examined the complainant testified that there were no visible injuries and no forensic indications of sexual assault. The court said the medical findings did not establish that the accused had forcibly raped the woman or administered any intoxicating substance.Referring to the Supreme Court’s ruling in State of Delhi vs Shriram Lohiya, the judge observed that statements recorded under Section 164 CrPC cannot be treated as substantive evidence unless corroborated by other material.The court therefore acquitted Gujral and directed that a separate case be initiated against the complainant for allegedly misusing legal provisions intended to protect women.