Toronto‑based TMX Group announced a $683 million acquisition of RAFI Indices, aiming to broaden recurring revenue and lift its international profile. At the same time , cruise operators Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian saw shares climb 6‑8% after reports of a tentative Iran peace agreement that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

TMX's $683 million RAFI acquisition fuels dividend pledge

Scotia Capital Markets analyst Phil Hardie kept his price target for TMX at $71, citing the RAFI deal as a catalyst for earnings momentum over the next 12‑18 months. Hardie noted that while the purchase adds debt, TMX has a history of deleveraging and has committed to maintaining a dividend payout ratio between 40 % and 50 %.

Shares have been volatile this year, sliding to $44 in February, jumping 26 % to $56 in May, then slipping below $48 in early June before rebounding nearly eight percent. The new index business is expected to generate steady fees, bolstering the company’s long‑term cash flow.

Cruise line stocks jump 6‑8% on Iran Strait of Hormuz peace hopes

TD Cowen analyst Kevin Kopelman cut his 2027 Brent crude forecast to $60 a barrel from $90 after news of a possible interim peace deal that would reopen the strategic waterway. The lower oil price outlook could lift operating margins for Carnival Corp., Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd. and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., whose shares rose between six and eight percent.

Kopelman identified Carnival as his top pick, projecting a 23 % rise in 2027 earnings per share to $3 from $2.39. the market is watching whether the diplomatic breakthrough will translate into resumed cruise itineraries through the Gulf.

Food retailer outlooks: Dollarama target $210.08 vs Loblaw $70

UBS Global Research analyst Michael Lasser warned that inflation and higher gas prices are pressuring the food retail and distribution sector.. He contrasted the bullish case for Dollarama,which Bloomberg analysts value at $210.08, with a mixed sentiment for Loblaw Companies , which carries a 12‑month price target of $70.

Loblaw’s discount footprint could sustain growth, but analysts fear slowing Canadian population growth may compress its valuation multiple. meanwhile, Alimentation Couche‑Tard enjoys a more optimistic outlook, with a Bloomberg consensus target of $92.82, driven by its low‑price quick‑meal offerings.

Analysts adjust oil price forecasts amid Middle East talks

Beyond cruise stocks, the tentative Iran agreement prompted a broader reassessment of energy markets. Kopelman’s Brent cut reflects expectations of reduced geopolitical risk premiums, which could benefit not only travel but also Canadian energy firms like Suncor Energy, whose shares rose to $182 after a Winnipeg yard visit.

These revisions underscore how quickly geopolitical signals can ripple through commodity pricing and equity valuations across sectors .

Will the interim Iran deal materialize?

While the reported peace talks have sparked optimism, no official confirmation of a signed agreement exists. Analysts remain split on whether the Strait of Hormuz will reopen in time to affect cruise itineraries this summer, leaving investors to weigh speculative upside against the risk of a reversal.