Morning Preview: December 29, 2025
Market Overview
U.S. stocks experienced a slight dip on light trading volume as they pulled back from all-time highs. The major indices are looking lower as the final three trading days of 2026 approach. Last week, the S&P 500 gained 1.4%, the Nasdaq climbed 1.22%, and the Dow increased by 1.2%. Year-to-date, the U.S. stock markets are on track for a third consecutive year of strong gains, with an overall increase of 17%. This growth has been primarily driven by significant advances in the Technology and Communications sectors, which have risen 26% and 21.85% respectively, largely due to strength in AI. Other sectors such as Industrials and Financials have also shown robust performance, with increases of 19.32% and 15% year-to-date.
Market Futures
| Index | Change | % Change | Last |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dow | 5.00 | 0.01% | 49,004 |
| S&P 500 | -14.25 | -0.20% | 6,965 |
| Nasdaq | -93.50 | -0.36% | 25,769 |
Global Market Performance
In Asian markets, the Nikkei Index fell by 223 points to 50,526, while the Shanghai Index saw a slight increase of 1 point to 3,965. The Hang Seng Index dropped by 183 points to 25,635. In Europe, the German DAX decreased by 14 points to 24,326, whereas the FTSE 100 rose by about 9 points to 9,879.
Commodity Prices
Silver prices, which had doubled over the past four months and increased by 170% year-to-date, are currently down by 3.4% to $75 an ounce after reaching a high of $83.62. Gold and oil prices are also being monitored closely, with oil prices rising due to geopolitical tensions and supply concerns.
Economic Indicators
Key economic indicators to watch this week include the advance goods trade balance for October, pending home sales for November, and the Dallas Fed manufacturing index for December. The Federal Reserve's meeting minutes and jobless claims will also be significant as the market anticipates a more dovish stance from the Fed under new leadership.
Sector News
Consumer Sector
Hyundai has stated it is not in a position to repurchase its former manufacturing plant in Russia due to ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Energy, Industrials, and Materials
Silver prices saw a spike of 6% before profit-taking brought them back down. Copper prices are nearing a record high of $13,000 per ton due to supply concerns, while oil prices are rising amid geopolitical tensions.
Financials
Bitcoin has rallied nearly 3% to approach the $90,000 mark but faces selling pressure above this level.
Healthcare
DiaSorin shares rose after receiving FDA clearance for a new molecular diagnostic platform.
Technology, Media & Telecom
Coupang announced a compensation plan for customers affected by a data leak, while Intel completed a significant stock placement with Nvidia, raising $5 billion.
Conclusion
The market is entering a critical period with several economic indicators and geopolitical events influencing trading decisions. Investors are advised to stay informed as the final trading days of the year approach.