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Escalation in Gaza: Israeli Airstrikes Result in Civilian Casualties

In a tragic escalation of violence, at least 18 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Saturday, according to Palestinian medics. The strikes targeted various locations, including a former shelter housing displaced people and an aid warehouse, which the Israeli military claimed were being used by militants.  The airstrikes have intensified the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with casualties being transported to hospitals by foot, on rickshaws, and in private cars. The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread displacement. Efforts by international mediators to broker a ceasefire continue, but the situation remains volatile.  The international community has called for restraint and the protection of civilians, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. 

U.S. Stocks Reach New Heights as Fed Signals Rate Cuts

 

U.S. stock markets soared to fresh record highs following the Federal Reserve’s decision to maintain its key interest rates and its projection of three rate cuts in 2024. The central bank’s commitment to a dovish monetary policy buoyed investor confidence, propelling major indices to unprecedented levels.

Market Highlights:

  1. Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA):

    • Closed up 512.30 points, or 1.4%, at a record 37,090.24 – the first record close since January 2022.
  2. S&P 500 (SPX):

    • Ended 63.39 points higher, or 1.37%, at 4,707.09.
  3. Nasdaq Composite (COMP):

    • Finished 200.57 points higher, or 1.38%, at 14,733.96, rebounding after briefly turning negative.

Key Factors:

  • The Federal Reserve’s decision to keep interest rates steady after nearly two years of aggressive rate hikes.
  • Anticipation of three rate cuts in 2024, signaling a more accommodative stance.
  • Optimism around artificial intelligence (AI) and robust economic growth.

Stock Movements:

  • Tesla gained 0.7% after confirming a price increase for China-produced Model Y vehicles.
  • Nvidia, a chipmaker central to Wall Street’s AI euphoria, dipped slightly after revealing pricing and shipment plans for its Blackwell B200 chip.
  • Intel received nearly $20 billion in grants and loans from the Biden administration, boosting its shares by 2.9%.
  • Nasdaq shares fell 3.9% as Borse Dubai reduced its stake in the company.

The Fed’s commitment to supporting economic recovery and managing inflation remains in focus as investors navigate an evolving landscape. Stay tuned for further market developments.


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