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Fed Poised for First 2025 Rate Cut as Weak Jobs Data Outweigh Inflation Concerns

  The Federal Reserve seal at its Washington, D.C. headquarters, where policymakers are set to decide on the first interest rate cut of 2025. The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to lower its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points today, marking its first rate cut of 2025 and the first since December last year. The move would bring the federal funds target range down to 4.00%–4.25%, as policymakers respond to slowing job growth and rising unemployment, even as inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target. Recent labor market data showed just 22,000 jobs added in August, with earlier months revised downward, while the unemployment rate has climbed to around 4.3%. Inflation, measured by the Fed’s preferred PCE index, has edged higher in recent months, partly due to tariffs pushing up consumer prices. Markets have largely priced in the cut, with investors watching the Fed’s updated “dot plot” for clues on whether more reductions will follow in October and December. The decision ...

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Ukraine Signals Readiness for Ceasefire Amid U.S. Push for Peace

 

In a significant development, Ukraine has expressed its willingness to accept a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire, contingent on Russia's agreement. This announcement follows high-level peace talks held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between Ukrainian and U.S. officials. The proposed ceasefire, which could be extended by mutual consent, aims to halt hostilities and pave the way for lasting peace.

The United States has emphasized that the success of this initiative hinges on Russia's reciprocity. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked, "The ball is in Russia's court," underscoring the importance of Moscow's cooperation in achieving peace. The U.S. has also pledged to resume military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, signaling its commitment to supporting Kyiv during this critical juncture.

The talks in Saudi Arabia also touched on broader issues, including potential prisoner exchanges and the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia. Both sides have expressed hope that this ceasefire could serve as a stepping stone toward ending the three-year-long conflict.

As the world watches, the focus now shifts to Russia's response. Will Moscow seize this opportunity for peace, or will the conflict continue to claim lives and devastate communities? The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this war.

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