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Hopes Rise for Iran War Deal, but Nuclear Standoff Keeps Global Markets on Edge

  Hopes for Deal to End Iran War Grow, but Nuclear Issues Keep Markets Volatile Growing optimism around a possible agreement to end the Iran war has provided some relief to global markets, but the underlying nuclear disputes remain unresolved — and that uncertainty continues to shape economic sentiment worldwide. Recent signals of progress in ceasefire discussions have already triggered sharp market reactions. Reports of “constructive conversations” between the U.S. and Iran pushed oil prices down and lifted global equities, underscoring how sensitive markets remain to any sign of de‑escalation. The conflict has kept the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint for roughly 20% of global oil supply — partially closed, creating what analysts describe as one of the largest energy supply disruptions in modern history.  Even temporary ceasefire announcements have produced dramatic swings. A recent two‑week truce sent global stocks surging and crude prices plunging more than 16%, reflecting ...

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Wall Street Futures Slip as Jobless Claims Fall, Rate Cut Hopes Waver

US stock futures edged lower Thursday, extending losses after two straight down sessions, as investors weighed fresh labor market data against ongoing uncertainty over Federal Reserve policy.

  • Dow Jones Industrial Average futures dipped about 0.2%, while S&P 500 futures fell 0.4% and Nasdaq 100 contracts slid 0.5%.
  • The declines follow Wednesday’s session, where the Dow closed down 171 points (-0.37%), the S&P 500 slipped 0.28%, and the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.34%.

The pullback comes despite a positive surprise in the labor market. Weekly jobless claims fell to 218,000, down from 232,000 the prior week, signaling resilience in employment. While encouraging for the economy, the dip complicates expectations for further Fed rate cuts, as policymakers remain divided on the pace of easing.

Adding to the mix, second-quarter GDP growth was revised higher to 3.8% annualized, topping forecasts of 3.3%. Investors are now turning their attention to Friday’s release of the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, which could shape the central bank’s next move.

Corporate earnings also remain in focus, with Costco set to report results after the bell.


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