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Wall Street Pauses as Tech Weakness Weighs on Futures

  U.S. stock futures were mixed as investors navigated lingering volatility following a sharp pullback in major technology names. Dow Jones futures showed a slight uptick, while S&P 500 futures hovered near flat. Nasdaq futures, however, continued to drift lower, reflecting ongoing pressure in the tech sector. The recent downturn in high‑growth technology stocks has prompted a broader shift in market sentiment, with traders rotating toward more defensive positions. Concerns about the sustainability of tech valuations and the impact of AI‑driven competition have added to the cautious mood. Attention now turns to Alphabet’s upcoming earnings report, which is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the market’s next move. With investors eager for clarity on the company’s AI strategy and advertising performance, the results could either steady the tech landscape or deepen the current uncertainty.

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French Left Wants to Govern, but Centrists Assert Their Role

 

Following Sunday’s legislative election, France’s left-wing leaders find themselves in a precarious position. The New Popular Front (NFP), a coalition of left-leaning parties, secured the most seats in the National Assembly but fell short of an absolute majority by about 100 seats. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrists came second, and the far-right National Rally third.

The Dilemma

The unexpected election outcome has plunged France into uncertainty just before the Paris Olympics. With no clear path to a stable government, the NFP faces the challenge of governing without a majority. Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the hard-left France Unbowed, insists that the NFP should fully implement its program, which includes raising the minimum wage, lowering the retirement age, and capping prices for essential goods. He rejects the idea of forming a coalition with parties outside the NFP, emphasizing the need to stay true to their principles.

Centrists’ Perspective

Centrists, however, argue that the NFP cannot govern effectively without support from their own parliamentary bloc. Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, leader of Macron’s Renaissance party, suggests that the NFP should break up, allowing its more moderate elements to form a broader coalition. Their red lines include support for the EU, fighting racism and antisemitism, transitioning to a green economy, and maintaining France’s appeal as an investment destination.

Uncertain Path Ahead

As NFP leaders meet behind closed doors to decide on a prime minister and governing strategy, France remains in political turmoil. The challenge lies in balancing the left’s ambitions with the centrists’ demands, all while navigating a fragmented parliament.


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