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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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Assassination of Hamas Leader in Iran Sparks Fears of Escalation

 

The assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has sent shockwaves through the region, raising concerns about potential retaliation and a broader conflict. Haniyeh, a prominent figure in the Palestinian militant group, was killed early Wednesday morning, according to statements from both Hamas and Iranian officials.

The incident has drawn immediate threats of revenge against Israel, further destabilizing a region already grappling with the ongoing war in Gaza and escalating tensions in Lebanon. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has vowed to seek retribution, declaring three days of national mourning.

Haniyeh’s assassination comes amid a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, brokered by international mediators. The killing is seen as a significant escalation, potentially derailing peace efforts and igniting further violence. The Israeli government has not commented on the incident, but the Israeli military is reportedly assessing the situation.

The international community, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, has expressed concern over the potential for wider regional conflict. Blinken emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire to prevent further escalation.

As the region braces for possible retaliatory attacks, the assassination of Haniyeh underscores the volatility of the current geopolitical landscape and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to prevent a broader war.


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