The Quebec-based convenience-store chain said it is closing its 38 stores in Russia effective immediately, and implementing plans to take care of employees, though it did not specify further details. (The Logic)

Talking point: Couche-Tard has operated stores under its primary brand Circle K in St. Petersburg, Murmansk and Pskov, and employs more than 320 staff in the country. The company joins a growing list of businesses worldwide that have cut ties with Russia as reputational and financial risks mount. TikTok, Netflix and Samsung, as well as three accountancy giants PwC, KPMG, and EY, have severed connections with or limited services in Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Canadian companies including Bombardier, Canadian Tire and Magna have recently shuttered Russian-linked operations. Some Canadian pension funds and investment firms have also announced they are divesting their holdings in Russian companies.