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Futures Slip as Geopolitical Tensions Overshadow Strong Bank Earnings

  US stock futures edged lower as investors balanced upbeat bank earnings against rising geopolitical unease tied to escalating tensions involving Iran. Contracts tied to the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded in the red, signaling a cautious start to the trading day. Major banks delivered solid quarterly results, with strong trading revenue and resilient consumer activity helping lift sentiment in the financial sector. Yet the optimism was tempered by concerns that potential US responses to developments in Iran could inject fresh volatility into global markets. Energy prices climbed as traders braced for possible disruptions. The pullback comes at a moment when investors are already navigating a crowded landscape of economic data, inflation readings, and policy uncertainty. With markets on edge, even strong corporate performance wasn’t enough to counter the broader risk-off mood.

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Ceasefire Negotiations Between Israel and Hamas to Continue in Qatar


Efforts to establish peace in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas are set to progress, with ceasefire talks anticipated to recommence in Qatar this Sunday. These discussions, facilitated by Egyptian officials, represent a critical juncture as they bring together Israeli and Hamas representatives for the first time since Ramadan began.

The proposed three-stage plan by Hamas outlines a roadmap to halt hostilities. Initially, a six-week ceasefire would involve a prisoner exchange, followed by a permanent ceasefire declaration and, ultimately, the lifting of the blockade on Gaza to allow reconstruction efforts.

Despite the complexity of the situation, with demands for a permanent ceasefire from Hamas and Israel’s objective to “annihilate Hamas,” there is a cautious optimism that these talks could mark a turning point in a conflict that has deeply affected the Gaza region and its inhabitants.

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