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Markets Slip as Investors Bet on Extended U.S.–Iran Ceasefire

  Stocks Edge Lower as Investors Hope U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Will Hold Stocks drifted lower today as markets balanced cautious optimism over a potential extension of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire with persistent geopolitical and inflation concerns. Recent trading sessions have shown that even modest signs of diplomatic progress can meaningfully shift investor sentiment. Asian and U.S. markets rallied earlier this week on hopes that Washington and Tehran would continue negotiations, helping unwind some of the war-driven risk premiums that had pushed oil and volatility higher. Despite the pullback, investors remain hopeful that the ceasefire—currently set to expire soon—will be extended, giving negotiators more time to work toward a longer-term agreement. Reports indicate both sides are considering adding another two weeks to the pause, a move that has already helped push Brent crude below the recent peak of nearly US$120 per barrel. Lower oil prices have eased pressure on inflation expecta...

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Trump’s Trade Twist: New Reciprocal Tariffs Aim to Level the Global Playing Field

President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum outlining a plan to impose reciprocal tariffs on all nations that levy duties on U.S. imports. The new policy is designed to “charge them exactly what they charge us” in an effort to create a fairer trading environment for American industries and workers.

Under this initiative, U.S. trade officials will study tariff and non-tariff barriers country by country before recommending specific rates. The implementation of these tariffs is expected to roll out gradually over the coming weeks or months, rather than taking effect immediately. Trump defended the move as a necessary step to end what he calls an “unfair system” that has long disadvantaged the United States in global trade battles.

Critics, however, warn that the new measures could increase costs for consumers and disrupt supply chains, potentially adding to inflationary pressures. Some analysts believe that by encouraging other countries to lower their own duties in a reciprocal fashion, the overall impact on global trade might be less severe than expected. Regardless, this latest action marks another bold escalation in Trump’s long-running trade war strategy, with key partners such as Canada, Mexico, and China poised to feel its effects.


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