National Business

TORONTO — Most North American stock markets fell after a good start to May as the technology sector came under pressure in the United States. Several large U.S. tech giants were lower with Apple Inc. down 3.

CALGARY — Barrick Gold Corp. says a proposal to hand out US$750 million in cash to its shareholders has been approved by those who stand to pocket the outlay of 42 cents per share.

CALGARY — Suncor Energy Inc.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Saudi Aramco said Tuesday its profits soared by 30% in the first quarter of the year, compared to last year, riding on the back of higher crude oil prices.

CALGARY — Imperial Oil Ltd. investors have voted 86 per cent to defeat a shareholder resolution that it adopt a target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

VANCOUVER — Increasing values are prompting homeowners to sell, but the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver says more supply is still needed to meet active market demands.

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia's Liberal government announced more than $12 million in additional support Tuesday for businesses hit by the latest COVID-19 lockdown in the province.

Bausch Health Companies Inc. is preparing to spin off its eyecare business this fall while also considering suitable alternatives including a sale of the business, the company's CEO said Tuesday. "We have a value in our mind for that business.

Insurance experts say consumers can expect more companies to introduce exclusions around COVID-19 after Desjardins dropped liability and property damage coverage related to communicable diseases.

CALGARY — Shares in fertilizer manufacturer Nutrien Ltd. rose Tuesday after it increased its annual earnings guidance based on rising sales expectations as its farm customers loosen purse strings in view of multi-year high crop prices.