National Business

Ontario plans to speed up the building of highways by facilitating construction 24 hours a day, accelerating property acquisitions, and creating a faster environmental assessment process.

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. rose for the third week in a row, reaching its highest level in eight weeks. The rate rose to 6.44% from 6.32% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 7.

MONTREAL — BRP Inc. has put its marine businesses up for sale as it looks to focus on powersports products and cut the cable to its money-losing boat brands. The Valcourt, Que.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans stepped up their purchases at retailers last month as low unemployment, steady pay gains and rising stock and home values helped sustain their willingness to spend despite higher prices. Retail sales rose 0.

TORONTO — A survey from J.D. Power shows customer satisfaction is higher at mid-sized banks than the Big Five as Canadians are focused especially on fees.

Digital platforms like Uber, Airbnb and Etsy have made it easier than ever to make some extra cash on the side, but experts say you need to be diligent about tracking and reporting that additional income, or risk the consequences.

PARIS (AP) — France’s richest family, the Arnaults of luxury empire LVMH, announced the planned purchase of second-division soccer club Paris FC on Thursday.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans stepped up their purchases at retailers last month as low unemployment, steady pay gains and rising stock and home values helped sustain their willingness to spend despite higher prices. Retail sales rose 0.

REGINA — Saskatchewan's main political leaders are back on the campaign trail today after hammering each other in a televised debate. Saskatchewan Party Leader Scott Moe is set to make an announcement in Moose Jaw.

WINNIPEG — After a lengthy review, Manitoba's NDP government has halted a plan hatched by the former Progressive Conservative government to build new schools in partnership with the private sector.