National Business

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index gained almost 100 points Thursday, helped by gains in industrial and utilities stocks,while U.S. stock markets also rose.

MISSISSAUGA, Ont. — Pork markets are showing signs of improvement, said Maple Leaf Foods Inc. chief executive Curtis Frank, helping the company achieve a profit in its first quarter compared with a year ago even as sales edged lower.

MONTREAL — Canadian airlines have enjoyed a two-year boom amid consumer hunger for post-pandemic travel. But as that pent-up demand recedes, the country's largest carrier hopes to ramp up ticket sales to corporate customers instead.

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks closed higher and trimmed their losses for the week. The S&P 500 climbed 0.9% Thursday, a day after swinging sharply when the Federal Reserve said it’s likely delaying cuts to interest rates.

Loblaw chairman Galen Weston, as well as the company's new chief executive, pushed back on what they called “misguided criticism” of the grocer as a boycott againstthe company gains steam online.

Frustration over BCE Inc.'s 4,800 job cuts earlier this year spilled over at the company's annual general meeting on Thursday, as investors and employees questioned executives on their compensation during a period of belt-tightening for staff.

CALGARY — Fuel retailer Parkland Corp. said Thursday the 157 Canadian fuel and convenience store locations it has put up for sale are generating a great deal of interest from prospective buyers.

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia’s public works minister says that after a review by her department, the province will be keeping its current motor vehicle inspection requirement in place.

OTTAWA — Canada posted a merchandise trade deficit of $2.3 billion in March, its largest deficit since June last year, Statistics Canada said Thursday.

CALGARY — Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.