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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 Nervous Ahead of US Inflation Report

 

Shares in Asian markets dipped today as investors anxiously await a crucial U.S. inflation report due on Friday. The report’s findings could significantly impact interest rates and global markets.

Key Points:

  • Focus on Inflation: The U.S. Federal Reserve closely monitors the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index, a key measure of inflation. Recent mixed data has left investors in a wait-and-see mode, wondering when the central bank might adjust interest rates.

  • Chinese Property Market: Efforts to revive China’s property sector have fallen short. Despite Beijing’s measures to cut down-payment ratios and mortgage interest rates, the market remains sluggish. Dozens of property developers defaulted on debts, affecting the entire Chinese economy.

  • Wall Street’s Reaction: Wall Street is cautious, with the Hang Seng down 2% and the Shanghai composite index slipping 0.6%. Investors worldwide are closely monitoring the inflation report’s impact.



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