US Markets Slide as Federal Reserve Meeting Begins and Geopolitical Tensions Escalate

Investors await the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision while Israeli airstrikes on Gaza and trade policy uncertainty weigh on sentiment.

The S&P 500 remains in correction territory, falling over 10% from its February peak, with tech stocks leading recent declines.
The Federal Reserve has started its two-day policy meeting, with markets expecting interest rates to remain unchanged but closely watching for updated economic projections.
Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have killed over 400 people, disrupting a ceasefire and heightening geopolitical risks, which have driven gold prices to record highs above $3,000 per ounce.
European and Asian markets continue to outperform US stocks, supported by fiscal stimulus measures in Germany and China.
Uncertainty around President Trump's trade policies and tariffs is fueling market volatility, with concerns over their impact on economic growth and inflation risks.