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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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Trump Eases Auto Tariffs to Support U.S. Manufacturing

President Donald Trump has taken a significant step to alleviate concerns in the automotive industry by signing executive orders to relax his 25% tariffs on automobiles and auto parts. This move comes after warnings from automakers and analysts that the tariffs could raise prices, reduce sales, and make U.S. production less competitive globally.

The revised policy introduces temporary rebates for vehicles assembled in the U.S. with foreign parts, aiming to ease the financial burden on manufacturers. Trump described the changes as a "bridge" to encourage automakers to shift more production to the United States. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that the goal is to create more domestic manufacturing jobs and strengthen the U.S. auto industry.

Automakers like General Motors and Ford have expressed gratitude for the relief measures, highlighting their commitment to investing in American manufacturing. Industry leaders also noted that the adjustments would provide time to reconfigure supply chains and ramp up domestic production.

This policy shift underscores the administration's focus on balancing trade policies with the need to support domestic industries and jobs.

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