After a volatile stretch, markets finally found a bit of balance. Reports suggesting a possible de-escalation helped calm nerves, at least temporarily. Risk appetite improved slightly, though traders aren’t fully convinced the worst is over.

Gold edged higher again, reclaiming some ground as investors cautiously returned to safe-haven assets. In forex, price movements were more contained, with fewer sharp swings compared to earlier in the week.

Still, the bigger picture hasn’t changed much. With Donald Trump remaining a key player in the geopolitical narrative, markets are likely to stay headline-sensitive. Any shift in tone could quickly move prices again.