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Wall Street Futures Ease as Strong GDP Growth Tempers Fed Cut Hopes

US stock futures dipped Tuesday morning as stronger-than-expected GDP growth raised doubts about near-term Federal Reserve rate cuts, sending the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures slightly lower. Market Overview Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures all slipped about 0.2% in premarket trading. The decline comes after three consecutive winning sessions for US equities, highlighting investor caution despite recent momentum. Gold and silver continued their rally, with both metals on pace for their best year in over four decades. Economic Data Impact The third-quarter GDP report showed the US economy grew at a 4.3% annualized rate, well above the 3.3% forecast. Strong consumer spending drove the surprise, but analysts warn that the government shutdown likely slowed growth in the fourth quarter. The data suggests economic resilience, but also reduces the likelihood of immediate Fed rate cuts, which had been priced in by markets. Investor Sentiment Traders are recalib...

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Israel Explores New Governance Options for Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict


Israel is currently exploring the possibility of establishing an alternative local governing body for Gaza, according to Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The goal is to move beyond Hamas, but the specifics of who might replace them remain uncertain. This initiative comes amid new uncertainty in the ongoing eight-month war. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure from various quarters, including calls to accept a new cease-fire deal proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden. Meanwhile, far-right allies threaten to destabilize his government if he agrees to the deal. Gallant, a member of Israel’s three-member War Cabinet, has advocated for a detailed postwar plan for Gaza. He stated that the framework for this alternative governance involves isolating certain areas, removing Hamas operatives, and introducing other forces that could facilitate the formation of a new governing body.

In a related development, Israel is seeking Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas to manage civilian affairs in planned “humanitarian pockets” within the Gaza Strip. These pockets are designed as testing grounds for postwar administration of the enclave. While the situation remains complex and fluid, efforts to find alternatives to Hamas continue as the conflict persists.


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