Markets Calm Despite U.S. Political Turmoil -- Canadian Commentary

(RTTNews) - Canadian stocks inched higher Thursday as markets took a breather after yesterday's tempest caused by political upheaval in the U.S.

Rising crude oil prices helped energy stocks steady, while banks trimmed significant losses.

The TSX Composite Index was up 27.14 points, or 0.18 percent, to 15,300.82.

Beleaguered lender Home Capital Group (HCG.TO) has announced another departure from its board. Longtime investor John Marsh is being replaced in the boardroom by governance lawyer James Lisson. Shares rose 2.3 percent on hopes the new leadership can save the company and prevent contagion to the rest of the financial sector.

US regulators will investigate Boeing's unfair trade claims against Canadian rival Bombardier (BBD.B.TO), which it accuses of dumping products thanks to unfair subsidies from Ottawa. Bombardier denies any wrongdoing, but shares were fractionally lower.

Gold futures edged lower Thursday, easing from 4-week highs. Gols stocks lost 2.2 percent.