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Wall Street Pauses as Fed Meeting Looms: Futures Hold Steady

U.S. stock futures were little changed on Tuesday as investors awaited the start of the Federal Reserve’s final policy meeting of the year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures all hovered near flat, reflecting a cautious mood across Wall Street. The Fed is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged, but traders are focused on Chair Jerome Powell’s comments and the central bank’s updated economic projections. Markets are looking for clues on when rate cuts might begin in 2024, with inflation cooling but still above the Fed’s long-term target. Recent gains in equities have been fueled by optimism that the Fed’s tightening cycle is over, yet uncertainty remains about how quickly monetary policy will shift toward easing. Until then, investors appear content to hold their positions, waiting for clearer signals from the Fed before making bold moves.

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Trump's Trade Moves: Relief for Automakers, New Levies on Semiconductors and Pharmaceuticals

In a significant shift in trade policy, President Donald Trump has hinted at potential tariff relief for automakers while advancing plans to impose new levies on semiconductor and pharmaceutical imports. The administration has launched investigations into the national security implications of importing these items, signaling a move toward stricter trade measures.

Trump's remarks suggest a temporary reprieve for the auto industry, allowing car manufacturers more time to transition to U.S.-made parts. This comes as the administration continues to enforce a baseline 10% tariff on all imports, with additional duties targeting specific sectors.

The semiconductor and pharmaceutical industries, heavily reliant on imports from Asia, are under scrutiny. Trump views this dependence as a national security concern and aims to incentivize domestic production through tariffs. However, critics warn that such measures could lead to shortages and disrupt supply chains.

These developments are part of Trump's broader strategy to reshape global trade dynamics, with implications for businesses and financial markets worldwide.

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