STOCKS | Wall Street Focuses on Middle East Ceasefire as Oil Falls and Gold Swings

Wall Street remained focused this week on developments in the Middle East, and energy prices eased after a ceasefire agreement was reached. According to PANews, oil prices have fallen to around $70 a barrel from $100 about a month ago. Major U.S. stock indexes are set to close out a solid first half of the year next week. The S&P 500 is up more than 7% so far in 2026, though equities faced a more difficult period in June. Gold prices saw sharp volatility this week. Early dip-buying and safe-haven demand shifted into another round of heavy selling amid stronger-than-expected U.S. economic data, persistent inflation, a stronger U.S. dollar, and rising expectations for Federal Reserve rate hikes, pushing gold back near the $4,000 level. In a late surge, gold rebounded to the edge of $4,100.