Headline: Oil and Precious Metals Surge, Boosting Canadian Markets (^GSPC)

[Para 1: The Lead] Oil and precious metals prices have surged, signaling a positive start for Canadian stocks. As of today, February 4, 2026, oil prices climbed 4.5% to $82.30 per barrel, while gold rallied 2.3% to $1,950 per ounce. These gains are expected to propel the S&P/TSX Composite Index (^GSPC) higher, reflecting increased investor confidence in commodities and energy sectors. [Para 2-3: Supporting details & Context] The upward momentum in oil and gold is attributed to geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures, which have bolstered demand for safe-haven assets. Canadian oil producers and mining companies, such as Suncor Energy (SU.TO) and Barrick Gold (GOLD), have seen their shares rise by 5.2% and 3.1%, respectively. This trend is expected to continue, as investors seek to capitalize on the commodities' resilience in the face of economic volatility.