Market Brief 17 October, 2024

Good evening, investors and traders! The markets are showing signs of strength today, with the Nasdaq 100 Index (NDX) up by 0.16% to 20,209.81 and the S&P 500 Index (GSPC) up by 0.08% to 5,844.35. The news is dominated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with Israel reporting the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. The ECB cut interest rates for the third time this year, signaling a continued focus on economic growth. Gold prices hit a new all-time high, driven by safe-haven demand amid geopolitical uncertainty. The U.S. economy continues to show resilience, with retail sales exceeding expectations and jobless claims declining.