National Business

WASHINGTON — Consumer confidence rose sharply for a second straight month, hitting the highest level since the pandemic began, as the rapid rollout of vaccines and another round of U.S. financial support for Americans boosts optimism.

When the federal government set the interest rate for federal student loans at zero and provincial interest rates were set at a low 3.

Travis Scott, the rapper famous for his string of stylish hip-hop hits, from “SICKO MODE” to “Highest in the Room," and for the wild mosh pits at his concerts, has been flexing his philanthropic arms.

WASHINGTON — U.S. home prices rose in February at the fastest pace in nearly seven years as strong demand for housing collided with a tight supply of homes on the market.

BEIJING — A tanker spilled oil into the sea off one of China’s busiest ports Tuesday after being struck by another vessel, the government and the ship's manager said. The A Symphony was hit at about 8:50 a.m.

The competing bids for U.S. railway Kansas City Southern each received a boost over the weekend, further complicating the rivalry between Canada's two largest railroads. The transport regulator in the U.S.

Canadian National Railway has boosted its earnings guidance for the year as it anticipates a recovery of the North American economy. "The economy ahead of us looks good. The operating metrics are solid.

TORONTO — Some of the most active companies traded Monday on the Toronto Stock Exchange: Toronto Stock Exchange (19,170.56, up 68.23 points.) Roxgold Inc. (TSX:ROXG). Materials. Up 29 cents, or 15.1 per cent, to $2.21 on 27.9 million shares.

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index started the trading week slightly higher as North American markets were stable ahead of a busy week for U.S. corporate earnings, while the loonie rose against the U.S. dollar.

TORONTO — BCE's unsuccessful bid for Shaw Communications Inc. has renewed speculation about which other telecom companies could be takeover targets for Bell, Rogers or Telus. BCE Inc.