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Markets Slip as Investors Bet on Extended U.S.–Iran Ceasefire

  Stocks Edge Lower as Investors Hope U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Will Hold Stocks drifted lower today as markets balanced cautious optimism over a potential extension of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire with persistent geopolitical and inflation concerns. Recent trading sessions have shown that even modest signs of diplomatic progress can meaningfully shift investor sentiment. Asian and U.S. markets rallied earlier this week on hopes that Washington and Tehran would continue negotiations, helping unwind some of the war-driven risk premiums that had pushed oil and volatility higher. Despite the pullback, investors remain hopeful that the ceasefire—currently set to expire soon—will be extended, giving negotiators more time to work toward a longer-term agreement. Reports indicate both sides are considering adding another two weeks to the pause, a move that has already helped push Brent crude below the recent peak of nearly US$120 per barrel. Lower oil prices have eased pressure on inflation expecta...
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Wall Street’s Momentum Cools After Its Latest Record-Setting Week

 

Wall Street, fresh from its recent record highs, has taken a step back as the new trading week begins. The S&P 500 dipped by 15.99 points, representing a 0.3% decline, settling at 5,218.19 in a subdued day of trading. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced a 162.26-point drop (equivalent to 0.4%) to reach 39,313.64. The Nasdaq composite also retreated, losing 44.35 points (or 0.3%) to close at 16,384.47.

This cooling momentum comes after a remarkable run for Wall Street, which had been scaling new heights. Investors are closely monitoring the Federal Reserve for any signals regarding potential interest rate cuts. The recent surge in the U.S. dollar against the Japanese yen has also raised concerns, prompting speculation about market intervention. The dollar’s ascent to nearly 152 yen—a significant jump from slightly above 130 yen a year ago—has drawn attention. Meanwhile, the euro stands at $1.0818, up from $1.0810.

In Asia, shares exhibited mixed performance. Japan’s Nikkei 225 declined by 1.2%, reaching 40,414.12, as investors booked profits following the index’s recent record-breaking highs. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng edged up by 0.2% to 16,535.89, while China’s Shanghai Composite gained 0.3%, closing at 3,056.52. The Chinese yuan (renminbi) weakened to a four-month low of 7.2282 against the U.S. dollar. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 bucked the trend, rising by 0.5% to 7,811.90. South Korea’s Kospi experienced a slight decline, losing 0.2% to settle at 2,743.04.

As the week unfolds, investors remain watchful for further cues from the Federal Reserve and potential market developments. Wall Street’s recent retreat serves as a reminder that even record-setting rallies can encounter moments of moderation.

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