Key Takeaways
- French President Emmanuel Macron has declared the immediate release of all hostages in Gaza as France's "urgent and absolute priority" amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian concerns.
- Five members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were killed in a recent attack by ISIS in Deir ez-Zor, highlighting persistent security challenges in the region.
- White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett stated the economy is experiencing 'smooth sailing' despite a recent jobs report, while also indicating he does not aspire to run the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- The cryptocurrency market is expected to cool in August, with new tariffs contributing to macroeconomic concerns that could impact the ongoing crypto rally.
Global attention remains sharply focused on the Middle East, where French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized the "urgent and absolute priority" of securing the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza. This statement underscores the critical humanitarian situation and ongoing efforts to de-escalate the conflict in the region. France is also set to officially recognize the State of Palestine in September at the United Nations General Assembly, a move that has drawn condemnation from Israeli and U.S. officials.
Meanwhile, security concerns persist in Syria, with reports indicating that five members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were killed in an attack launched by the ISIS organization in Deir ez-Zor. Separately, Syrian Internal Security Agency forces have reportedly regained control of "Tel al-Hadid" in the Sweida countryside after expelling attacking groups, with the field situation returning to its prior state amid heightened security. These developments highlight the complex and volatile security landscape across Syria.
On the economic front, White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett has offered an optimistic outlook, describing the U.S. economy as "smooth sailing" despite a recent jobs report. Hassett also clarified that he does not aspire to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This comes as new tariffs are being implemented, with some economists raising concerns about data quality following recent changes at federal agencies.
The cryptocurrency market is anticipated to experience a cooling period in August. CNBC reports that new tariffs are ratcheting up macroeconomic concerns, which could lead to a slowdown in the recent crypto rally. This suggests that broader economic policies and global trade tensions are beginning to exert influence on digital asset valuations.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.