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Global Markets Rattle as Oil Spikes and U.S. Futures Sink Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

  Markets are sliding as geopolitical tensions intensify, with U.S. stock futures turning sharply lower and oil prices surging above the $100 mark. Investors are reacting to escalating conflict in the Middle East, which is raising fears of disrupted energy supplies and renewed inflation pressures.  Market Overview Dow Jones futures fell roughly 0.8% , extending a multi‑day downturn. S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures each slipped about 0.6% , paring earlier, deeper losses.  The declines reflect mounting investor anxiety as geopolitical risks overshadow recent economic data. Oil Surges on Supply Fears Crude oil spiked above $100 per barrel before easing slightly. The surge followed Iran’s expanded attacks on energy infrastructure , prompting Iraq to close key oil terminals after tanker strikes.  Higher oil prices are stoking concerns about inflation , complicating expectations for future Federal Reserve policy. What’s Driving the Selloff The widening Mi...
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US Stocks Stall as Fed Decision Day Arrives

                                             

Wall Street is on edge today as the Federal Reserve prepares to announce its next interest rate decision at 2 p.m. ET. Investors and Main Street alike are closely watching Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference following the decision. The stakes are high, and caution prevails as the market awaits any potential shifts in the Fed’s stance. Here are the current points

  • The S&P 500 opened flat, fresh off an all-time closing high.
  • The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.2%.
  • The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite gained 0.2%.

While no change in interest rates is expected this afternoon, all eyes are on the “dot plot.” Analysts suspect that recent hotter-than-expected inflation readings and signs of strength in the US economy could prompt policymakers to forecast rate cuts in 2024, up from the previous three. This uncertainty could weigh on stocks and impact the recent rally.

Bonds are also in focus. Yields on the 10-year Treasury were slightly lower at around 4.28%, after rising over 20 basis points in the past two weeks. The Fed’s statement could further influence bond yields.

On the corporate front, luxury group Kering (KER.PA) (PPRUY) issued a warning that sales at its biggest brand, Gucci, fell 20% in the first quarter, causing shares to slump as much as 15% in Paris.

As the Fed’s decision looms, investors are treading carefully. The market awaits clarity on the central bank’s outlook for the months ahead. Buckle up for a potentially bumpy ride as the dot plot takes center stage! 

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