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Wall Street Pauses as Fed Meeting Looms: Futures Hold Steady

U.S. stock futures were little changed on Tuesday as investors awaited the start of the Federal Reserve’s final policy meeting of the year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures all hovered near flat, reflecting a cautious mood across Wall Street. The Fed is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged, but traders are focused on Chair Jerome Powell’s comments and the central bank’s updated economic projections. Markets are looking for clues on when rate cuts might begin in 2024, with inflation cooling but still above the Fed’s long-term target. Recent gains in equities have been fueled by optimism that the Fed’s tightening cycle is over, yet uncertainty remains about how quickly monetary policy will shift toward easing. Until then, investors appear content to hold their positions, waiting for clearer signals from the Fed before making bold moves.

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Southern Europe Battles Intense Heat Wave: Acropolis Closed, Firefighters Perish in Italy

 

A severe heat wave sweeping across southern Europe has led to significant disruptions and tragic losses. In Greece, authorities were compelled to close the Acropolis, the nation’s most iconic cultural site, for several hours on Wednesday due to soaring temperatures. Tourists visiting the Parthenon temple atop the Acropolis faced extreme heat, with temperatures forecasted to reach up to 42°C (107°F) in some areas.

Meanwhile, in Italy, the heat wave has had deadly consequences. Two firefighters tragically lost their lives while combating a fire in the Basilicata region. The Italian government has issued severe heat warnings for multiple cities, including Palermo and Sicily, urging residents, especially the elderly, to stay indoors.

The heat wave, driven by hot air masses from Africa, is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures potentially peaking at 43°C (109°F). Other countries in the region, such as Albania and North Macedonia, are also grappling with wildfires and extreme heat, prompting emergency responses and international assistance.

As southern Europe continues to endure these extreme conditions, authorities are taking measures to protect both residents and tourists from the relentless heat.



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