Latest Finance-Economy News
Precious Metals Stage Dramatic Reversal
Spot silver erased its 14% gain while spot gold fell over $100 from its all-time high. This reversal follows recent surges driven by geopolitical tensions.
Gold had previously eclipsed $5000 per ounce in 2026.
Trump Threatens 25% Tariffs on South Korea
Trump announced increasing reciprocal tariffs on South Korean goods from 15% to 25%. This escalates trade tensions amid global market volatility.
Stocks dropped initially on tariff threats before rebounding.
OPEC+ Signals No Production Increase in March
OPEC+ representatives indicate production policy may remain unchanged, with no output hike planned. This decision supports oil prices amid active oil and gas stocks.
China National Offshore Oil hit a record high intraday.
US Dollar Weakens to Four-Month Low
The US Dollar Index fell 0.436% to 97.04 after hitting a four-month low. Yen surged on speculation of US-Japan intervention.
A weaker dollar boosts multinational earnings short-term.
US Stock Indexes Close Higher Amid Volatility
S&P 500 gained 0.50%, Dow rose 0.64%, Nasdaq up 0.43%. Intel dropped over 5%, Apple rose 2.97%.
Tariff threats caused drops followed by rebounds.
Gold Surges Past $5000 on Geopolitical Tensions
Gold eclipsed $5000/oz in 2026, driven by tensions, fiscal concerns, and de-dollarisation. It was trend followers' key gainer after 65% rise in 2025.
Central bank buying fueled the ascent.
Bank of Japan Shows No FX Intervention Signs
No clear evidence of yen intervention last Friday from BoJ data. Yen rose 3% on intervention hints.
This contributes to dollar weakness.
80% Chance of US Government Shutdown
Probability of US government shutdown by end of January estimated at 80%. This adds to market uncertainty ahead of FOMC.
Volatility expectations rise for short-term VIX9D.
Upcoming FOMC Meeting and Earnings Season
FOMC meets Wednesday with no rate cut expected (under 2% chance). Followed by Mag 7 earnings and 25% of S&P 500 reports.
Traders remain calm despite volatility potential.
Trump on Iran: Situation Evolving, Seeks Deal
Trump states Iran situation 'rapidly evolving' but believes Iran wants agreement. This ties into broader geopolitical gold drivers.
Impacts precious metals and risk assets.
China Holds 2026 Macroprudential Conference
People's Bank of China convened its 2026 Macroprudential Work Conference. Occurs amid Nasdaq China Golden Dragon Index dip of 0.6%.
Alibaba down 1%.