National Business

The number of Americans applying for jobless benefits rose to their highest level in two months last week, but layoffs remain at historically low levels as the labor market continues to chug along despite elevated interest rates.

CALGARY — To get an idea of the financial toll extreme weather is taking on this country's agriculture industry, look no further than the government of Saskatchewan's books.

HALIFAX — A weeks-long strike at a transshipment facility near Halifax is over after union members ratified a three-year collective agreement. More than 230 unionized workers at the CN Autoport facility in Eastern Passage, N.S.

BlackBerry Ltd. says it uncovered another US$55 million in cost savings in its latest quarter, when it reported a US$56 million loss. But chief financial officer Steve Rai says, "there's still more opportunities to be more efficient.

CALGARY — After four years and more than $34 billion in costs, the Trans Mountain oil pipeline expansion will go into commercial service on May 1.

INGONISH, N.S. — The historic main building at the Keltic Lodge at the Highlands golf resort in Cape Breton has closed, Parks Canada and GolfNorth Properties announced Wednesday.

TORONTO — Royal Bank of Canada has reinforced its status as Canada’s biggest companyafter successfully navigating its takeover of HSBC Canada, making it an even bigger target for critics.

TORONTO — Some of the most active companies traded Wednesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange: Toronto Stock Exchange (22,112.46, up 37.36 points): TC Energy Corp. (TSX:TRP). Energy. Down $1.14, or 2.10 per cent, to $53.16 on 11.7 million shares.

TORONTO — Strength in energy and base metal stocks helped lift Canada's main stock index on Wednesday, while U.S. stock markets were mixed but held relatively steady.

VICTORIA — BC Hydro is looking for more clean power to add to its grids as electricity demands are expected to increase by 15 per cent in the next six years.