July 10 (Reuters) - Futures tracking Canada's blue-chip stock index edged higher on Friday as investors assessed Middle East tensions and awaited the June jobs report for insights on the economy and the Bank of Canada's monetary policy path.
September contracts tracking the resources-heavy S&P/TSX Composite index were up 0.2% by 6:16 a.m. ET.
Eyes were on Canada's June jobs report, due at 08:30 a.m. ET, which could offer cues on the Bank of Canada's interest rate outlook.
Traders largely expect the central bank to keep rates unchanged this year, according to LSEG data, with the next policy decision scheduled for July 15.
Oil prices were marginally lower on Friday after slipping in the previous session. Brent crude futures traded around $76.18 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude futures dropped 0.3% to $71.83.
The Canadian benchmark index is set to decline about 0.2% for the week, if losses hold. The index had posted weekly gains for the last two weeks.
Precious metals were also headed for weekly losses, with spot gold down 0.4% and silver falling 0.8%. The rise in demand for safe havens amid escalating Middle East tensions boosted mining stocks in the previous session, lifting the TSX (.GSPTSE).
In company news, industrial valve maker Velan (VLN.TO), posted an adjusted net loss in the first quarter as lower volumes and higher provisions hit profitability.
On the trade front, Prime Minister Mark Carney told a televised business forum that Saudi Arabia could help Canadian mining firms develop. He also met Amin Nasser, head of state oil giant Saudi Aramco, for talks deepening cooperation.
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Reporting by Sudeshna Ghoshal in Bengaluru; Editing by Diti Pujara
