What impact does the hope for an end to the war in the near future have on financial markets?

• The FTSE 250 fell to £8,659, down 1.24% over the past five days, as market uncertainty and investor caution put pressure on mid-cap stocks.
• The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) dropped to 106.20 — its lowest level in two months — as investors focused closely on Federal Reserve policy expectations and broader market conditions.
• The utilities sector rose to $811, gaining 1.41% over the past five days, as investors sought stability in defensive sectors amid market volatility.

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