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Futures Slip as Geopolitical Tensions Overshadow Strong Bank Earnings

  US stock futures edged lower as investors balanced upbeat bank earnings against rising geopolitical unease tied to escalating tensions involving Iran. Contracts tied to the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded in the red, signaling a cautious start to the trading day. Major banks delivered solid quarterly results, with strong trading revenue and resilient consumer activity helping lift sentiment in the financial sector. Yet the optimism was tempered by concerns that potential US responses to developments in Iran could inject fresh volatility into global markets. Energy prices climbed as traders braced for possible disruptions. The pullback comes at a moment when investors are already navigating a crowded landscape of economic data, inflation readings, and policy uncertainty. With markets on edge, even strong corporate performance wasn’t enough to counter the broader risk-off mood.

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Ceasefire in Gaza: A Historic Prisoner Swap

In a significant development towards peace, Hamas militants released four female Israeli soldiers held captive since October 7, 2023. The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City. This exchange was part of a broader ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, which also saw the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners.

The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt and Qatar with backing from the United States, aims to end the 15-month-long conflict that has devastated Gaza. The release of the soldiers was met with jubilation in Israel, with crowds gathering in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square to watch the event on large screens.

Israel's release of the Palestinian prisoners, including many serving life sentences for deadly attacks, was a crucial part of the agreement. The ceasefire has so far held, reducing hostilities and allowing humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza.

This historic exchange marks a hopeful step towards lasting peace in the region, with both sides working towards further negotiations to secure the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.




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