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Market Jitters as Cooling GDP Meets Hotter Inflation

  US stock futures slipped on Friday as investors weighed a mixed batch of economic signals. Fresh data showed that US GDP growth cooled in the fourth quarter, while the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge—the core PCE index—picked up momentum, raising questions about the path of interest rates.  Futures tied to the Nasdaq 100 and S&P 500 dipped about 0.3%, while Dow Jones Industrial Average futures fell 0.2%, breaking a three‑day winning streak. Traders also kept a close eye on geopolitical tensions involving the US and Iran, as well as a potential Supreme Court decision on tariffs that could sway market sentiment.  The combination of slowing growth and rising inflation has left markets cautious. Investors are now looking ahead to upcoming economic releases for clearer direction on how the Fed may respond in the months ahead.
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US and UK Impose Sanctions on Iran Following Unprecedented Attack on Israel


In a significant move, both the United States and the United Kingdom have taken action against Iran in response to Tehran’s recent attack on Israel. The concern is that this attack could escalate tensions in the already volatile Middle East region. Here are the key points:

  1. Sanctions Targeting Iran:

    • The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has specifically targeted 16 individuals and two entities in Iran. These entities are involved in producing engines that power the drones used in the April 13 attack on Israel.
    • Additionally, OFAC has sanctioned five firms related to steel production and three subsidiaries of Iranian automaker Bahman Group. Bahman Group is accused of materially supporting Iran’s military and other sanctioned groups.
    • The U.K. has also taken action against several Iranian military organizations, individuals, and entities associated with Iran’s drone and ballistic missile industries.

  2. President Biden’s Statement:

    • President Joe Biden emphasized that the U.S. will continue to impose sanctions to further degrade Iran’s military industries. He warned those who enable or support Iran’s attacks that they will be held accountable.

  3. Restricting Access to Microelectronics:

    • The U.S. Commerce Department is imposing new controls to limit Iran’s access to basic commercial-grade microelectronics. These controls apply to items manufactured outside the U.S. but produced using U.S. technology.

  4. Context of Iran’s Attack:

    • Iran’s attack on Israel came as a response to what it claims was an Israeli strike on Iran’s consulate in Syria earlier in the month.
    • Israel’s military chief has stated that his country will respond to the Iranian attack, while world leaders are urging restraint to prevent further escalation.

  5. European Union’s Stance:

    • European Union leaders have pledged to ramp up sanctions on Iran, specifically targeting its drone and missile deliveries to proxies in Gaza, Yemen, and Lebanon.
    • EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that the situation could lead to a regional war in the Middle East, sending shockwaves globally.

In summary, the U.S. and U.K. are taking decisive steps to hold Iran accountable for its actions, while also urging caution to prevent further conflict. The situation remains tense, and international leaders are closely monitoring developments.

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