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Market Volatility: Stocks Flatten as Powell's Remarks Weigh on Gains

The stock market experienced a turbulent session on Wednesday, ultimately closing near flat after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's comments on monetary policy and inflation concerns. The S&P 500 ended nearly unchanged , giving back earlier gains as investors digested Powell’s remarks on the Fed’s stance regarding interest rates and economic restraint. Powell reiterated that the central bank remains cautious about inflation, particularly in light of tariff-driven price increases expected over the summer. While the Fed signaled that borrowing costs are likely to decline this year, the pace of future rate cuts appears to be slowing.  Following Powell’s speech, U.S. Treasury yields reversed their earlier declines , influencing market sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 43.83 points (0.10%) , while the Nasdaq Composite managed a slight gain of 23.66 points (0.12%).  Investors also kept a close eye on geopolitical developments, particularly tensions in the Midd...

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U.K. Halts Trade Negotiations with Israel Amid Gaza Conflict Concerns


The United Kingdom has suspended free trade negotiations with Israel, citing concerns over the ongoing war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the decision, condemning Israel’s military escalation and restrictions on aid deliveries to Palestinian civilians.

The move comes as international pressure mounts on Israel to ease its blockade of Gaza, which has led to warnings of famine and severe shortages of essential supplies. The U.K. government also imposed sanctions on illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, targeting individuals and organizations linked to violence against Palestinian communities.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer reinforced Britain’s stance, calling the suffering of children in Gaza “utterly intolerable” and urging Israel to lift restrictions on humanitarian aid. The suspension of trade talks marks a significant diplomatic shift, as the U.K. joins other nations in demanding accountability for Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank.

Israel has defended its military operations, arguing that they are necessary for national security. However, the U.K.’s decision signals growing frustration among Western allies over the escalating conflict and its impact on civilians.

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