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New Tensions Rise as Iran Warns of Possible Strikes on Regional Energy Sites

  Iran has issued a sharp warning that it may target regional energy infrastructure following recent threats from U.S. President Donald Trump over the Strait of Hormuz. The exchange marks a renewed escalation in a long‑running standoff over one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. According to Iranian officials, any attempt to restrict Tehran’s access to the strait would be met with what they described as “direct and proportional” action. Energy facilities across the Gulf—central to global oil and gas supply—were specifically mentioned as potential targets if tensions continue to rise. The Trump administration has repeatedly criticized Iran’s activities in the region, warning of consequences should Tehran interfere with international shipping. The latest remarks from Washington prompted Iran’s response, which framed its position as defensive and tied to national sovereignty. Regional governments have expressed concern that even rhetorical escalation could unsettle...
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US Stocks Slip, Bond Yields Rise as Rate-Cut Bets Cool



US stocks slid on Wednesday as bond yields rose, as optimism for fast interest-rate cuts waned ahead of fresh jobs data and the release of Federal Reserve meeting minutes.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) fell 0.3% while the benchmark S&P 500 (GSPC) slipped about 0.5%. The Nasdaq Composite (IXIC) dropped roughly 0.7% after a bruising session that saw tech stocks shed almost 1.6%.

Hopes that the year-end market rally would roll on into 2024 took a battering on Tuesday as stock indexes and bond prices sank in tandem for their worst start to a year in decades. Bonds are headed lower for a fourth day, pushing the 10-year Treasury yield (TNX) up near 4%.

Traders have started pulling back on bets on Fed interest-rate cuts, with 74% now pricing in a March pivot, compared with 89% a week ago, per the CME FedWatch Tool.

Minutes of the Fed’s December meeting due later could give a window into how near officials think they are to easing up on tightening, so they can nail a “soft landing” for the economy.

Eyes will also be on the JOLTS report on job openings, given the unexpected resilience of the labor market has fed into expectations of a Fed shift. Wednesday’s data will set expectations for the December US monthly jobs report coming Friday.

After a rough first day of trading, investor attention on Wednesday will turn to the labor market with the monthly update on job openings and turnover — known as the JOLTS report — set for release at 10:00 a.m. ET.

A decline in job openings throughout 2023 served as an early indicator the US labor market was slowing, and Wednesday’s data will serve as a key table-setter ahead of Friday’s December jobs report.


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