The news of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, along with reports of Iranian negotiators heading to Pakistan, has boosted investor optimism about a potential resumption of peace talks with Iran. Meanwhile, Microsoft announced it is offering voluntary buyouts to about 7% of its U.S. employees, a first for the company, and plans to cut about 8,000 employees, or 10% of the workforce, and eliminate hiring plans for 6,000 open roles. The company also announced it was cutting 1,400 roles in its second round of layoffs and cutting about 7,000 positions. Meanwhile Starbucks has made significant changes to its loyalty program, which has seen a significant increase in customers' interest in rewards.