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Wall Street Futures Tick Higher as 2026 Trading Begins

U.S. stock futures moved higher early Friday, signaling a confident start to the first trading session of 2026. The gains follow a strong multi‑year run for equities and come as investors look ahead to a new year of economic and corporate developments. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures edged up, S&P 500 futures posted a modest rise, and Nasdaq futures led the early advance with a stronger uptick. The move reflects continued enthusiasm for technology and growth‑oriented sectors, which helped drive markets through much of the previous year. Despite bouts of volatility in late 2025, major indexes closed the year with solid performance, supported by resilient consumer spending, easing inflation pressures, and expectations of a more accommodative monetary environment. As 2026 begins, traders are watching several themes: the timing and pace of potential interest‑rate cuts, the durability of tech‑sector leadership, and whether gains will broaden across more industries. Early future...

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A Solemn Farewell: Pope Francis's Journey to St. Peter's Basilica

In a deeply moving ceremony, the body of Pope Francis was transported from his residence at the Santa Marta guesthouse to St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. The 88-year-old pontiff, who passed away two days ago, was carried in an open coffin by 14 pallbearers dressed in black suits and white gloves. The procession was accompanied by red-hatted cardinals, priests, and Swiss Guards, as a male choir chanted psalms and prayers in Latin.

Thousands of mourners gathered in St. Peter's Square, breaking into applause as the coffin passed—a traditional Italian gesture of respect. The bells of the basilica tolled solemnly, marking the end of Pope Francis's 12-year papacy, which was characterized by his progressive reforms and advocacy for inclusivity.

The late pope's body will lie in state at St. Peter's Basilica for three days, allowing the faithful to pay their respects before his funeral on Saturday. His final resting place will be the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflecting his humble wishes for a simpler ceremony.

Pope Francis's legacy as a compassionate and reformative leader continues to resonate with Catholics and admirers worldwide.

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