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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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Ceasefire Holds Despite Collapse of Afghanistan-Pakistan Peace Talks

Afghan refugees sit beside trucks loaded with their belongings as they wait their turn to leave for their homeland through a border crossing point which partially opened following the Oct. 19 ceasefire, on the outskirts of Chaman, a border town on the Pakistan-Afghan border, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025.


The latest round of peace talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan has collapsed, according to Taliban officials, though the fragile ceasefire between the two sides remains in place.

Negotiations aimed at easing tensions and fostering long-term stability broke down after both parties failed to reach consensus on key security and border issues. Despite the setback, Taliban representatives emphasized that the ceasefire agreement would continue, signaling a cautious commitment to preventing further escalation.

Regional analysts note that while the continuation of the ceasefire offers temporary relief, the collapse of talks underscores the deep mistrust and unresolved disputes between Kabul and Islamabad. The situation leaves the future of bilateral relations uncertain, with both nations facing pressure to return to dialogue in order to avoid renewed conflict.


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