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Wall Street Holds Steady as S&P 500 Hits Record Ahead of Christmas Break

Market Snapshot – December 24, 2025 Dow Jones Futures: Flat at 48,735 points S&P 500 Futures: Near 6,957 points, little changed after Tuesday’s record close Nasdaq 100 Futures: Slight dip of 0.1% to 25,796.5 points S&P 500 Index: Closed Tuesday at 6,909, its latest all-time high Key Drivers Robust economic growth continues to fuel investor optimism. Seasonal “Santa Claus rally” has lifted stocks for four consecutive sessions. Markets will close early today at 1 p.m. EST and remain shut tomorrow for Christmas Day. Traders remain cautious about inflation and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026. Quick Take Wall Street enters the holiday season on a high note, with the S&P 500 near the 7,000 mark and futures showing little movement. The shortened trading session means liquidity will be thin, amplifying small moves. Still, the overall tone remains upbeat, with investors betting that the year-end rally will carry into the final days of 2025.

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Hamas Sticks to Demand for Gaza Truce Deal Implementation

 

 Amid ongoing conflict, Hamas remains steadfast in its position regarding Gaza truce talks. The Palestinian militant group insists that negotiations should focus on a deal already discussed with Israel and mediators, rather than starting anew. Israeli airstrikes, which recently claimed the lives of at least 19 Palestinians in the enclave, have intensified the urgency for a resolution.

The United States expressed optimism that peace talks scheduled for Thursday would proceed as planned, emphasizing the possibility of a ceasefire agreement. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to engage in discussions in Qatar, Egypt, and Israel. While the Israeli government confirmed its delegation’s participation, Hamas seeks a workable plan to implement a proposal it has already accepted, rather than engaging in further talks.

In the densely populated Deir Al-Balah, where many are desperate for a truce, Israeli airstrikes continue to exact a heavy toll. The conflict, now spanning 10 months, has resulted in nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths, including commanders and fighters. A potential ceasefire deal aims to end hostilities in Gaza and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the war can only end when Hamas is eradicated. As the situation remains tense, the international community watches closely, urging a swift resolution to prevent further loss of life.


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