Futures associated with Canada's primary stock index saw an uptick on Friday, marking a strong start to 2026. This increase was chiefly driven by higher gold prices, which bolstered mining shares. Gold prices experienced nearly a 2% rebound, spurred by geopolitical tensions and fresh expectations for a reduction in US interest rates, thus enhancing interest in stocks linked to bullion. On the downside, crude oil prices dipped slightly, impacting energy production companies negatively. Additionally, Capstone Copper announced that a union representing approximately half of the workforce at its Mantoverde copper and gold mine in Chile—equating to about 22% of its total employees—will commence a strike on Friday. Investors are also keenly anticipating the release of S&P Global manufacturing PMI data.