British Columbia Chapter Update

The CIRI BC Chapter hosted its third consecutive Commodities Outlook event, featuring Bart Melek and Fraser Ince from TD Securities. During the February 10 session, they discussed the forces reshaping metals and energy markets in 2026, emphasizing that commodity markets are at a critical inflection point.

Some noteworthy takeaways from the session include:

• Gold and Silver Surge: Gold rose 65% in 2025, silver 150%, driven by the ‘debasement trade’ – concerns that massive U.S. debt will require monetization, prompting central banks to shift reserves toward real assets.
• Policy Shifts Boost Platinum Group Metals (PGMs): New policies favouring hybrids over pure EVs have revived demand for platinum and palladium, reversing years of expected oversupply.
• Copper Positioned for Strength: Electrification, AI data centres, and grid modernization drive sustained copper demand, with supply deficits expected for years ahead.
• Oil's Long-Term Outlook: Despite near-term oversupply, underinvestment in global capacity suggests significantly higher long-term oil prices.

For investor relations professionals, the message is clear: real assets are becoming essential portfolio diversifiers in an era of currency debasement and geopolitical fragmentation.

Alberta Chapter Update

CIRI Alberta officially launched its 2026 Mentoring Series, a members-only, peer-to-peer initiative designed to foster knowledge sharing and meaningful dialogue within the investor relations community. Sponsored by TMX and Newsfile, the series features quarterly sessions that bring together emerging professionals and experienced IROs in a fast-paced, rotating discussion format focused on practical IR topics and career insights. The second session took place on March 18 at the TMX Group offices in Calgary, continuing the engaging format of short, structured conversations that encourage networking, mentorship, and the exchange of real-world experiences.

Three additional sessions remain in the 2026 series, offering members further opportunities to connect, learn and strengthen Alberta’s IR community.

Ontario Chapter Update

CIRI Ontario kicked off 2026 with a strong start to the year’s programming.

In February, the Chapter hosted the latest installment of its popular Economic Outlook series, featuring Jean-François Perrault, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist at Scotiabank. During this virtual session, Perrault shared insights on the current macroeconomic environment and the key national and global forces expected to shape the year.

Looking ahead, the CIRI Ontario Chapter Executive is preparing for the Chapter’s upcoming Annual General Meeting, and developing programming for the remainder of 2026, with a focus on timely topics that support the evolving needs of IR and capital markets professionals.

Quebec Chapter Update

CIRI Quebec members and guests gathered at Osteria MKT in Montreal on December 4 for an evening of festive networking and celebration, generously sponsored by Notified. The event provided attendees with a wonderful opportunity to connect with industry peers and toast the season.