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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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Cuba Plunged Into Darkness as Oil Pressures Mount

                                            Mass blackouts in Havana, Cuba, March 4, 2026

A sweeping power outage has left most of Cuba without electricity, stretching from Pinar del Río in the west to Las Tunas and Camagüey in the east. The state electricity union reported that the blackout began after an unexpected failure at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, one of the island’s key power sources. 

The crisis unfolds against the backdrop of tightening U.S. restrictions on oil shipments, which have sharply reduced the island’s fuel supply and strained its already fragile energy grid. Cuban officials say years of economic sanctions, combined with dwindling oil deliveries from allies like Venezuela and Mexico, have deepened the country’s energy shortages and made the grid increasingly vulnerable to large-scale failures. 

Residents in Havana and other major cities reported darkened streets, non-functioning traffic lights, and widespread disruptions to daily life. While authorities say recovery efforts are underway, the blackout highlights the island’s ongoing struggle to maintain stable power amid geopolitical pressures and aging infrastructure. 


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