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Markets Slip as Investors Bet on Extended U.S.–Iran Ceasefire

  Stocks Edge Lower as Investors Hope U.S.–Iran Ceasefire Will Hold Stocks drifted lower today as markets balanced cautious optimism over a potential extension of the U.S.–Iran ceasefire with persistent geopolitical and inflation concerns. Recent trading sessions have shown that even modest signs of diplomatic progress can meaningfully shift investor sentiment. Asian and U.S. markets rallied earlier this week on hopes that Washington and Tehran would continue negotiations, helping unwind some of the war-driven risk premiums that had pushed oil and volatility higher. Despite the pullback, investors remain hopeful that the ceasefire—currently set to expire soon—will be extended, giving negotiators more time to work toward a longer-term agreement. Reports indicate both sides are considering adding another two weeks to the pause, a move that has already helped push Brent crude below the recent peak of nearly US$120 per barrel. Lower oil prices have eased pressure on inflation expecta...

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Wall Street’s Resurgence: S&P 500 Marks Historic Winning Streak Amid Tariff Uncertainty

The S&P 500 has surged to its longest winning streak in two decades, erasing losses triggered by former President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff announcement on April 2. The broad-based index climbed 1.5% on Friday, marking its ninth consecutive day of gains—the longest streak since November 2004.

Investor sentiment improved as a stronger-than-expected U.S. jobs report eased recession fears. The economy added 177,000 nonfarm payrolls in April, surpassing economists’ expectations of 138,000. Meanwhile, China signaled openness to trade negotiations, raising hopes that tariff tensions may cool.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average also posted a strong performance, jumping 1.4%—a gain of over 500 points—while the Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.5%. Tech stocks led the rally, with Microsoft and Nvidia posting notable gains, though Apple shares dipped after warning of a $900 million tariff-related headwind.

Despite lingering concerns over trade policy, Wall Street’s resilience has been evident, with the S&P 500 recovering all of its post-tariff losses. Investors remain cautiously optimistic as negotiations between the U.S. and China unfold, potentially shaping the market’s trajectory in the coming months.

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