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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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Regional Conflict Escalates as Israeli Strikes Intensify Across Iran and Lebanon

            Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the Dahiyeh area of Beirut, Thursday, March 5, 2026. 



Israeli airstrikes have sharply intensified across Iran and Lebanon, marking one of the most volatile escalations in the region in years. According to multiple reports, Israeli forces launched broad-scale strikes on the capitals of both countries, while the United States simultaneously targeted an Iranian drone carrier at sea, signaling a coordinated surge in military pressure.

Iran responded with new retaliatory attacks early Friday, firing missiles and drones toward neighboring states that host U.S. forces. The exchange comes at the end of a full week of bombardment that has destabilized multiple fronts across the Middle East. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the bombardment is “about to surge dramatically,” underscoring Washington’s expectation of further escalation. 

Israeli officials claim that much of Iran’s air-defense infrastructure and missile launch systems have already been destroyed, though independent verification remains limited. Meanwhile, smoke and destruction were reported in central Tehran and Beirut as civilians sought shelter from the ongoing strikes. With no signs of de-escalation, regional tensions continue to mount, raising concerns about a broader conflict drawing in additional actors. 

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