Doha: US stocks closed modestly lower on Monday as investors awaited further signs of de-escalation in the Middle East. The S and P 500 slipped 13.50 points, or 0.18%, to close at 7,444.19. The Nasdaq Composite edged down 9.98 points, or 0.04%, to finish at 25,510.27. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 297.46 points, or 0.57%, to end the session at 51,848.96. According to Qatar News Agency, the decline in US stocks comes amid a backdrop of uncertainty in the Middle East, which has kept investors on edge. Market participants are closely monitoring geopolitical tensions and their potential impact on global markets. The modest downturn in the indices reflects a cautious approach by investors as they await more concrete developments in the region. The focus remains on how these geopolitical factors might influence economic conditions and market stability. Investors are seeking clarity on the situation, hoping for a resolution that could alleviate current uncertainties. The performance of the major indices indicates a cautious sentiment prevailing in the market as traders and investors continue to assess the potential risks involved.