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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Stock Market Hits Pause as Investors Eye Jobs Data; Bitcoin Surges Past $100,000

                                        

US stock futures stalled on Thursday as investors awaited fresh jobs data, causing the Nasdaq, Dow, and S&P 500 to hit a pause on their recent rallies. Meanwhile, Bitcoin continued its impressive run, surpassing the $100,000 mark.

Market Movements

  • Dow Jones Industrial Average (YM=F): Futures were little changed, signaling a pause in the record-setting rally that saw the Dow close above 45,000 for the first time.
  • S&P 500 (ES=F): Contracts hovered below the flat line, with investors counting down to Friday's monthly jobs report.
  • Nasdaq 100 (NQ=F): Also saw little movement, with futures hovering below the flat line.

Bitcoin's Surge

Bitcoin (BTC-USD) reached around $102,500 after breaking through the key $100,000 level late on Wednesday. This surge is driven by hopes for a crypto-friendly administration under President-elect Donald Trump, who nominated Paul Atkins to chair the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Economic Indicators

Investors are closely watching Friday's nonfarm payrolls report for a reality check on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's upbeat take on the US economy. A strong jobs report could impact the market's belief in a December rate cut.

Conclusion

As the stock market takes a breather, all eyes are on the upcoming jobs data and Bitcoin's continued ascent. The market's reaction to these events will be crucial in shaping investor sentiment moving forward.



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