Wall Street Feels the Heat (and Thrill): Fed Cuts, Tariffs & Mega-Mergers Set NYSE Buzz
29 December 2025
241 mins read

Stock Market Today 29.12.2025

ENDEDLive coverage has endedEnded: December 30, 2025, 12:00 AM EST

Stock Market LIVE: GIFT Nifty flat start as US, Asian markets fall; Nifty faces key levels

December 29, 2025, 11:54 PM EST. Indian indices are set to open flat to mildly negative, with GIFT Nifty hinting at about 25,924, roughly 33 points lower. The mood remains cautiously constructive amid mixed global cues and no major domestic triggers. Nifty 50 briefly rose earlier but slipped to an intraday low near 25,920, signaling ongoing selling pressure at highs and limited follow-through. Key resistance sits at 26,050-26,100, with support at 25,800-25,850. Bank Nifty opened higher but logged intraday profit booking, eyes resistance around 59,150-59,250 and supports near 58,600-58,700. On flows, FIIs sold Rs 2,759 crore while DIIs bought Rs 2,643 crore. Strategy: stay selective, buy quality on dips with tight risk controls, and initiate fresh longs only above 26,300.

Upstox, RKSV compliance and investor risk disclosures: SEBI, NSE, and SCORES guidelines

December 29, 2025, 11:52 PM EST. This note compiles regulatory and risk-disclosure information from Upstox Securities Pvt. Ltd. and RKSV Commodities India Pvt. Ltd., including SEBI registrations, NSE and BSE codes, and compliance contacts. It outlines the SCORES complaint process, with mandatory details and the benefits of speedy redressal. The document confirms Upstox is a subsidiary of RKSV Securities India Pvt. Ltd. and that RKSV entities act as distributors in certain products. It carries warnings about market risks, SEBI's brokerage limits, and historical risk disclosures for derivatives trading. Morningstar-powered fund research is cited, and investors are urged to read offer documents and risk disclosures carefully. The disclaimer stresses market risk and states that Upstox disclaims liability for investment outcomes.

Stock market today: Nifty50 slips below 25,950; Sensex down over 100 points

December 29, 2025, 11:37 PM EST. Indian equities opened in the red as Nifty50 slipped below 25,950 and Sensex tumbled over 100 points. At 9:19 AM, Nifty50 hovered around 25,903 and Sensex about 84,567, down roughly 0.15%. Analysts expect a range-bound session amid mixed global cues and domestic fund flows. Dr. VK Vijayakumar of Geojit says the year-end weakness reflects thin volumes and that a clearer directional move will only come when large institutions return in the new year. Investors will watch auto sales numbers for signs of consumption strength. Global cues remain cautious after tech-led declines on Wall Street; the USD held steady ahead of Fed minutes. Foreigners sold about Rs 2,760 crore, while DIIs bought about Rs 2,643 crore, offering some support.

Stock Market Holidays 2026: Complete NSE, BSE and MCX Trading Calendar for Investors

December 29, 2025, 11:36 PM EST. Investors and traders should note the 2026 calendar for the NSE, BSE, and MCX holidays. The official calendar lists national, religious, and regional days when all segments-equity, derivatives, currency, and commodities-will be closed, with separate settlement holidays affecting transfers and credit timelines. Key dates include Republic Day (Jan 26), Holi (Mar 3), Ganesh Chaturthi (Sept 14), Diwali Balipratipada (Nov 10), and Christmas (Dec 25), among others. The guide also covers settlement holidays on dates like Feb 19, Apr 1, and Aug 27, and notes that some holidays fall on weekends, which do not add extra closures. Tracking these dates helps plan entry/exit, margin, and fund allocation, avoiding last-minute surprises.

Gujarat Kidney shares debut with 5%+ premium; NSE listing at Rs 120

December 29, 2025, 11:35 PM EST. Gujarat Kidney And Super Speciality Ltd made a decent market debut on December 30, listing on both NSE and BSE with a premium of more than 5% over the IPO price. The Rs 251-crore issue was priced in a Rs 108-114 band. On the NSE the stock opened at Rs 120, a 5.26% premium, while on the BSE it listed at Rs 120.75, up about 5.92%. Post-listing market cap stood at roughly Rs 952 crore. The debut beat grey-market expectations of a flat listing. Sector outlook remains constructive as India's hospital industry benefits from rising healthcare demand and government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat. Expert Ravi Singh of Master Capital Services notes long-term growth, driven by integrated diagnostics, pharmacy services, and tech investments. Proceeds will fund the Parekhs Hospital acquisition and other payments, supporting future expansion.

Australian shares edge higher as financials offset mining losses in thin year-end trade

December 29, 2025, 11:31 PM EST. Australian shares edged higher in thin year-end trade, with the S&P/ASX 200 up 0.2% to 8,740.9 as of 2350 GMT. The gains were led by financials, up about 0.9%, with Commonwealth Bank of Australia rising to its highest in nearly two months. Miners fell about 1.4%, pulling the index away from the previous session's record highs; heavyweight names BHP and Rio Tinto were mixed (BHP -0.6%, Rio flat). Gold stocks slid about 4% as bullion eased from record levels. Investors await the Fed minutes for clues on policy next year, while the RBA held rates in December. The NZX 50 rose 0.3% to 13,565.59.

David Sacks Hints at Leaving California Over 5% Billionaire Tax; Markets Watch Potential Relocation

December 29, 2025, 11:30 PM EST. PayPal co-founder and White House advisor David Sacks hinted he could leave California over the proposed 5% Billionaire Tax, a net-worth confiscation that would apply to already taxed amounts. He framed it as more than an unrealized-gains tax, warning of impact on wealth holders. The remarks followed DeSantis's critique and comments from Patrick Bet-David; hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman warned California risks self-destruction under aggressive taxes. The flare-up underscores investor concern about California's business climate, capital flight, and potential effects on tech leadership, venture funding, and growth stocks if tax policy tightens. Markets will watch for signals on relocation and tax-policy risk shaping equity allocations and private-market funding.

DigitalBridge Group Stock Jump After SoftBank Buyout Offer: What Investors Need to Know

December 29, 2025, 11:29 PM EST. DigitalBridge Group surged about 10% after SoftBank announced a deal to acquire the company for an enterprise value of roughly $4 billion. SoftBank would pay $16 per share in cash, a premium to Monday's close of around $15.26, but investors remain skeptical the deal closes given past tender-offer misfires with WeWork. The transaction highlights demand for AI-ready infrastructure and data-center expansion. If completed, shareholders technically lock in the exit price of $16, but execution risk and regulatory approvals temper the enthusiasm. The market will watch for deal milestones and whether any competing bids emerge, as DigitalBridge trades near the offer price around $15.27. The core takeaway: a strategic buyer's commitment could reshape the stock, but investors should weigh the probability of closing against the current price.

Stocks Slip as Megacap Tech Weakness Weighs on Major Averages

December 29, 2025, 11:28 PM EST. Stocks drift lower as megacap technology weakness weighs on the major indexes: S&P 500 (-0.24%), Dow (-0.09%), and Nasdaq 100 (-0.24%). March E-mini futures for the S&P and Nasdaq slide, and markets cite a mixed macro backdrop. Metals extend losses, pressuring miners, while crude oil climbs ~2% on demand optimism and geopolitics. A softer 10-year yield around 4.10% underpins equities but supports safe-haven T-notes. Key data late week include pending home sales, Chicago PMI, and the release of FOMC minutes; traders assign roughly a 19% chance of a -25 bp rate cut at the January meeting. Overseas markets are mixed, with Europe higher and Japan softer.

Stocks Fall as Megacap Tech Slumps; Metals Plunge and Crude Rises

December 29, 2025, 11:27 PM EST. Stocks drift lower as megacap technology stocks lead the retreat, with the S&P 500 down 0.24%, the Dow Jones off 0.09%, and the Nasdaq 100 0.24% lower. March E-mini futures slid about 0.28% (ESH26) and 0.27% (NQH26). A sharp plunge in metals followed profit-taking after parabolic gains, even as crude oil climbs over 2% on geopolitical tensions and China's fiscal pledge to boost growth. The 10-year Treasury yield eased to a one-week low of 4.10%, helping cap losses. Mixed US data showed Nov pending home sales +3.3% and the Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook at -10.9. Markets eye the FOMC minutes and the holiday-shortened week, while December seasonality remains a bullish factor historically.

Sensex Today | Stock Market LIVE Updates: GIFT Nifty Signals a Negative Start as Asian Shares Slide

December 29, 2025, 11:26 PM EST. Indian equities closed lower on Monday as thin year-end volumes and persistent foreign fund outflows weighed on risk appetite. The BSE Sensex declined 346 points to close at 84,695.54, while the NSE Nifty 50 slipped 100 points to 25,942.10. The session echoed a softer regional tone as GIFT Nifty signaled a negative start and Asian shares traded lower. Traders cited liquidity constraints and ongoing outflows, tempering near-term upside even with selective value in pockets. Markets will watch flows and domestic cues ahead of year-end activity.

Precious metals retreat as Asian equities swing; Fed minutes in focus

December 29, 2025, 11:25 PM EST. Gold and Silver eased after hitting record highs this week as traders book profits ahead of the New Year, while equities waver in quiet trade. Traders are unwinding positions after a stellar 2025, led by a rally in tech and a run of AI optimism. Minutes from the Fed's latest meeting – where rates were cut for the third straight time – are due later, with markets parsing for clues on a potential fourth cut in January. The Fed's easing has underpinned the rally, offsetting worries about a tech bubble. In Asia, Kospi and Nikkei 225 have surged this year but slipped Tuesday; Shanghai, Sydney and Taipei also fell, while Hong Kong, Singapore, Wellington and Jakarta edged higher. Gold hovered near $4,340 and Silver around $73.50 after peaks near $4,550 and $84, respectively. Bitcoin steadied just below $90,000.

Stocks Settle Lower as Megacap Tech Weakness Weighs on Major Indexes

December 29, 2025, 11:24 PM EST. Stocks closed lower on Monday as weakness in megacap technology stocks pressured the major benchmarks. The S&P 500 fell 0.35%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 0.51%, and the Nasdaq 100 slid 0.46%. March futures for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 extended losses. Treasuries steadied as the 10-year yield slipped to a one-week low near 4.10%, helping limit downside. Metals pulled back after parabolic rallies, while crude oil rose more than 2% on geopolitical headlines and China's fiscal pledge, supporting energy names. Data were mixed: pending home sales rose, while the Dallas Fed manufacturing index worsened. Week ahead features the FOMC minutes and unemployment claims; odds of a 25 bp rate cut remain modest around 16%. Overseas, the Euro Stoxx 50 was mixed, Asia slid and rose elsewhere.

Oil climbs as Ukraine war talks stall; Chinese demand supports prices; OPEC+ pause eyed

December 29, 2025, 11:23 PM EST. On Monday, February WTI +2.36% and February RBOB +1.19% as weekend talks to end the Ukraine-Russia war stalled. Chinese demand remains a key support as Beijing pledges growth, with China's crude imports seen rising to 12.2 mbpd (up ~10% m/m per Kpler). The EIA delayed its weekly inventory data. Supply-side factors include sanctions on Venezuelan oil, the Bella 1 tanker, and ongoing Nigerian strikes. Ukrainian drone/missile attacks pressuring Russian refineries, while OPEC+ plans a pause on production hikes in Q1-2026 and the IEA projects a ~4.0 mbpd global surplus in 2026.

Sugar Prices Mixed as Brazil 2026/27 Production Outlook Signals Decline

December 29, 2025, 11:22 PM EST. Prices for sugar traded mixed as March NY #11 sugar rose 0.59% while March London ICE white sugar fell 0.14%. The session kept a 2.25-month high vibe from last week. A key driver is the outlook for Brazil 2026/27 sugar production, seen down about 3.9% to 41.8 MMT, with exports expected to fall around 11% to 30 MMT. Outside-Brazil supply and India's export potential provide downside pressure, while Brazil's crop forecasts and ISO projections frame the broader supply/demand balance. The latest data from SAFRAS & MERCADO point to a tighter Brazilian footprint, underscoring a tug-of-war between supply growth outside Brazil and production risk at home.

Nat-Gas Prices Jump on Colder Outlook, Tightening Domestic Supply

December 29, 2025, 11:20 PM EST. January Nymex natural gas (NGF26) rose about 7.35% to a 3-week high on a cooler US forecast that should lift heating demand. Forecaster G2 called for colder-than-normal temperatures across the Northeast for January 3-7. The weekly EIA storage draw of −166 bcf for the week ended Dec 19 underscored tighter supplies, though the draw was smaller than the five-year average. US production remains near a record, with Lower-48 output around 113.7 bcf/d and demand at 103.8 bcf/d; LNG net flows to US terminals were about 19.8 bcf/d. European storage sits at 64% full vs a 75% seasonal average, contrasting with resilient US demand. With rigs near a multi-year high, the outlook remains price-supportive amid tight supply.

Stock Market Today: Key Updates Ahead of Trade on Dec 30

December 29, 2025, 11:18 PM EST. Bharat Electronics bags an additional Rs 569 crore order; RVNL is the lowest bidder for a Rs 201 crore east-coast railway project. Timex Group plans an oversubscription of up to 45 lakh shares, lifting its stake to about 8.93%. Astra clears proposals worth ₹79,000 crore. Indostar Capital Finance to sell a portion of its CV loan book for ₹109 crore. Cupid signals an FMCG facility in Saudi Arabia; Gujarat Narmada Valley Corp sees leadership changes with a new MD. Lupin inks an exclusive pact for GLP-1 drug Bofanglutide; Grasim merges Essel Mining with Aditya Birla Renewables. Indigo revises pay for pilots; Afcons achieves a breakthrough in a CIDCO water tunnel project. Endurance Tech merger with an arms unit; John Cockerill sells a stake; RBI approves Indian Bank tier-2 bonds; Gujarat Fluorochemicals update pending.

Stock Market Live Updates – 30 December 2025: Market Opens Lower; Timex OFS, Hindusthan Urban Infra Split, Ola Electric Nod

December 29, 2025, 11:04 PM EST. Live market updates for 30 December 2025 show a weaker start as the Sensex and Nifty opened lower on Tuesday, tracking subdued global cues. The session highlights include Timex Group India planning to exercise the oversubscription option for its OFS, adding 4.5 million shares, and Hindusthan Urban Infra approving a 1:5 stock split. Praveg signed a strategic inventory agreement with Mahindra Holidays. The day also brings news of Ola Electric receiving government certification for its 4680 Bharat cell powered Roadster X+ motorcycle. Early movers: the BSE Sensex down around 194 points to 84,500, and the Nifty around 25,883. Market commentary features broker calls on Lenskart, Home Textile, Titan, Welspun Living, and more, with mixed outlooks as margins and demand weigh on near-term earnings.

Is Fluor Stock a Millionaire Maker? NuScale Bet, Backlog, and an Overhaul

December 29, 2025, 10:50 PM EST. Fluor's stock has swung wildly in 2025 as it monetizes its stake in NuScale Power and executes a company overhaul. It sold part of its NuScale stake for about $600 million in October 2025, aiming to raise cash and monetize the remainder by mid-2026. But NuScale's volatility complicates a precise valuation of Fluor's remaining stake. The cash isn't a direct dividend; it will likely be reinvested or bolster the balance sheet. The turnaround hinges on a shift toward reimbursable-contract work to improve margins. At Q3 2025 Fluor reported a $28.2 billion backlog, with 82% of work under reimbursable contracts, which could support steadier profitability. Current price around $40.40, market cap $6.6B, 52-week range $29.20-$57.50.

10-Year Outlook: TELUS and Emera Could Deliver Thrilling TSX Dividend Returns

December 29, 2025, 10:49 PM EST. The article argues the stock market rewards cash-generating firms over time. It spotlights two TSX dividend stocks: TELUS (T) and Emera (EMA). TELUS currently offers a ~9.4% yield amid a strategic pause in dividend growth through 2028 to repair the balance sheet and target 10% free-cash-flow growth. While the high yield could compress as the plan unfolds, the setup could allow future dividend raises and potential capital appreciation if management executes. The BCE example is cited as a cautionary tale. Emera stands out for reliability: about 95% of cash flow from regulated sources, with Florida utilities driving earnings. A $20B capex plan supports this growth. Investors buying now may secure a high-yield, predictable income stream and long-term upside.

Smart Growth Stocks to Buy With $2,000 Right Now on the TSX

December 29, 2025, 10:45 PM EST. Robin Brown highlights three TSX growth names to deploy a $2,000. Mainstreet Equity (MEQ) offers a real estate compounder with a value-add strategy and a valuation near multi-year lows, backed by ample liquidity for acquisitions. Descartes Systems Group (DSG) has posted record 2025 results, with revenue up 11% and EBITDA up 15%, a 45% EBITDA margin, and a net cash-rich balance sheet, even as shares sit at a low valuation not seen since 2020. VitalHub (VHI) is a smaller healthcare software name delivering 214% five-year gains, serving public health systems in Canada, the U.K., the Middle East, and Australia. Taken together, these names illustrate opportunities in a challenging market driven by cash flow strength and long-term growth potential into 2026.

HeiTech Padu Berhad (KLSE:HTPADU) ROE Analysis: Can Leverage Lift Returns?

December 29, 2025, 10:44 PM EST. This piece uses ROE to gauge HeiTech Padu Berhad's ability to turn shareholder funds into profits. The trailing twelve months show a ROE of 7.6% on RM18m net profit against RM237m equity (to Sep 2025). Compared with the IT industry average of 12%, HeiTech Padu's return looks sub-optimal. The company carries a debt-to-equity ratio of about 1.37, and the analysis notes that high debt can boost ROE only if returns from the borrowed capital are strong; here the low ROE persists even with leverage, implying higher risk. The article emphasizes the distinction between debt-driven ROE and core economics, and flags risk factors to explore on the platform's risks dashboard. For investors, the key question is whether debt is supporting meaningful growth without compromising balance-sheet quality.

Hansen Technologies (ASX: HSN) delivers 58% five-year TSR, outpacing the market

December 29, 2025, 10:43 PM EST. Investors in Hansen Technologies (ASX: HSN) have earned a 58% TSR over five years, driven by a dividend-boosted return that outpaces the broader market. While the share price rose about 43% in five years, the total return including dividends climbs to 58%, underscoring the impact of dividends. The company posted EPS growth of ~10% per year over the period, higher than the 7% annual rise in the stock price, suggesting the market hasn't fully priced in improving fundamentals. For long-term holders, the stock has delivered roughly 10% annualized returns, despite a recent year-to-date decline of 0.6% as the market rose 10%. The piece also notes potential signs to monitor a possible long-term growth trend, after flagging one risk warning.

Bogus cops and crypto ATMs: Berkeley teacher scammed of her life savings

December 29, 2025, 10:42 PM EST. Berkeley special education teacher Danielle White lost nearly $70,000 in a phone scam that used fake police impersonation and crypto ATMs to drain her life savings. Over 27 hours, White was isolated and pressured into depositing cash after being told she'd missed a court appearance. The scammers used fear, fake identities, and VoIP spoofing to remain unseen. Federal data show digital scammers cost Americans billions, with the FBI reporting about $16.6 billion stolen last year. In Berkeley, more than 110 reports of false personation and related fraud were logged in the past year, with crypto networks cited as a complicating factor. Authorities caution the public to verify calls and avoid cash or crypto transfers to strangers.

MercadoLibre stock edges higher into Fed minutes as year-end trading thins

December 29, 2025, 10:34 PM EST. MercadoLibre (MELI) finished modestly higher Monday, up about 0.4% to $2,014.97, during light year-end trade as investors awaited the Federal Reserve minutes and a holiday-shifted jobless-claims report. The Latin-America tech and fintech name tends to swing with rate expectations and the dollar, making macro signals the near-term driver rather than company headlines. The session traded roughly between $1,986 and $2,037, leaving the stock well off its 52-week high after a volatile 2025 for growth names. Mercado Libre's ecosystem spans the Mercado Libre marketplace, Mercado Pago payments, and Mercado Envios logistics. A February 24, 2026 provisional date for Q4'25 results looms as investors benchmark against rate-sensitive peers and currency moves.

MercadoLibre (MELI) stock price today: Shares edge higher into Fed minutes as year-end trading thins

December 29, 2025, 10:33 PM EST. MercadoLibre (MELI) closed up about 0.4% at $2,014.97 as year-end trading thinned and traders priced in the Fed minutes and holiday-week jobless claims. The stock has traded within roughly $1,986-$2,037 and remains well below its 52-week high amid a volatile 2025 for growth names. Investors are parsing macro signals-Fed rate expectations and currency moves-more than company headlines, with the next catalyst the Fed's December meeting minutes due Tuesday and weekly jobless claims on Wednesday. Mercado Libre's ecosystem-marketplace, Mercado Pago, and Mercado Envios-keeps a growth-forward backdrop as traders benchmark against rate-sensitive peers ahead of late February Q4'25 results provisional date.

Madhav Copper Limited's 48% Monthly Rally Raises Questions Over Valuation (NSE:MCL)

December 29, 2025, 10:32 PM EST. Shares of Madhav Copper (NSE:MCL) jumped about 48% in the past month, reversing earlier weakness, but the full-year gain remains modest at around 9.9%. The rally has pushed the P/E ratio to about 50.9x, well above the Indian market norm; more than half of Indian firms trade below 25x. The near-term premise hinges on whether this premium is justified by earnings momentum, which has been weak as earnings declined by roughly 35% last year. With three-year earnings growth uneven and the market foreseeing only modest growth versus a 25% one-year market forecast, the high P/E looks vulnerable should earnings disappoint. Caution is warranted for holders and potential buyers until the company shows a sustainable earnings trajectory and cash flow resilience.

Madhav Copper (NSE:MCL) 48% Monthly Surge Sparks Valuation Concerns

December 29, 2025, 10:31 PM EST. Madhav Copper Limited (NSE:MCL) posted a 48% monthly surge, but the full-year gain sits around 9.9%. The jump has coincided with a lofty P/E ratio of 50.9x, well above many Indian peers where P/E under 25x is common and sub-14x isn't unusual. Latest results show earnings declined by 35% last year, with little to no EPS growth over three years, signaling an inconsistent earnings trajectory. Against a market forecast of roughly 25% expansion, Madhav Copper's high P/E looks harder to defend. Some investors remain bullish, but the piece warns such prices may be unsustainable if earnings don't improve. Potential buyers should examine the company's earnings, revenue and cash flow to gauge sustainability.

What's Driving the TSX's Top-Performing Stocks Into 2026

December 29, 2025, 10:30 PM EST. The TSX is set to finish 2025 strong, with roughly 30% gains led by big tech, banks and energy names. Among the standout performers are Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), up about 65% year-to-date, bolstered by a diversified domestic and rising U.S. footprint and a dependable 3.3% dividend yield. Another top performer is Enbridge (ENB), a premier energy infrastructure company with a vast pipeline network and a growing renewables portfolio; its segments rely on long-term, regulated contracts that deliver recurring revenue and a 6% dividend yield. Enbridge's backlog and renewables expansion support continued growth and capital return. With the economy improving and recession odds falling, these dividend-forward names remain attractive for 2026 alongside growth opportunities in energy and finance.

TSX's Top-Performing Stocks of 2025: TD, Enbridge Lead into 2026

December 29, 2025, 10:29 PM EST. From a near 30% gain in 2025, the TSX is poised for a strong finish and a promising 2026. Leading the pack are Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), up more than 65% YTD thanks to a diversified domestic footprint and a growing U.S. operation, with a reliable dividend that yields about 3.3%. The bank's long history of dividend reliability adds to its appeal for long-term investors. Another standout is Enbridge (ENB), a premier energy infrastructure company with a vast pipeline network and a growing renewable portfolio. Its revenue is supported by regulated contracts and a toll-like model, backing a stable 6% yield and a sizable project backlog. Together with energy, banks, and select retailers, these names set the stage for upside into 2026.

Banks Lead 2025 Rally; Dividends and Value Attract Investors Ahead of 2026

December 29, 2025, 10:28 PM EST. As 2025 rounds out, investors eye the financial sector as a potential 'hideout' with stocks near multi-year highs. Higher rates have boosted banks' profitability, supporting lending quality while technology and AI adoption lift earnings. Big banks lead the gains: Citigroup up ~68% YTD and JPMorgan ~35%, with all four largest U.S. banks outperforming broader benchmarks even as the Zacks Finance Market trails the S&P 500 and Nasdaq by modest margins. The group also appeals on yield and value: average dividends run around 2%, and the forward P/E sits near 19x, well below tech valuations. Within finance, the Securities and Exchanges industry shines, with NDAQ and SPGI rated Buy. For many, the sector remains a balanced mix of income and upside as 2026 approaches.

Hideout in the Financial Sector as We Round Out 2025: Banks Lead, Dividends Attractive, Valuations Compelling

December 29, 2025, 10:27 PM EST. As the year closes, investors weigh 2026 plays with the financial sector near all-time highs. The 2025 environment-policy uncertainty, tariffs and inflation-keeps rates higher for longer, but that has buoyed bank profitability and supported loan growth and credit quality. The standout is the big banks: Citigroup up ~68% YTD and JPMorgan ~+35%, lifting the Zacks Finance Market to about +18% and just behind the S&P 500. Dividends look appealing, with an average 2% yield versus the S&P 500's ~1%. Valuations are attractive too, with a forward P/E around 19x, far lower than many tech benchmarks. Within the sub-industries, Securities and Exchanges is top-ranked, with NDAQ and SPGI rated Buy. For many, the financial sector remains a defensive yet growth-friendly hiding place.

ASX Midday Sector Update: Energy Stocks Jump, Materials Fall; BOE Insiders Buy as BlueScope Lands AU$76m Deal

December 29, 2025, 10:26 PM EST.Energy stocks were up about 1% at midday Tuesday as Brent crude futures rose 2.1% on Monday to $61.94/bbl. In corporate moves, Boss Energy (ASX:BOE) disclosed that Bank of New York Mellon and affiliates became a substantial holder on Dec. 24, owning 20.9 million shares (about 5.03% of issued shares). CEO Matthew Dusci bought 36,900 BOE shares (7,660 @ AU$1.31 and 29,240 @ AU$1.37); Non-Executive Chair Wyatt Buck purchased 38,000 shares at AU$1.38. On the downside, the materials sector fell about 1% as silver and gold prices slipped. BlueScope Steel (ASX:BSL) won a AU$76 million contract for the sale of land in West Dapto, New South Wales, with completion in H2 FY2026.

ASX Midday: Energy Stocks Edge Higher as Brent Rises; Materials Sink

December 29, 2025, 10:25 PM EST. Energy stocks were up about 1% at midday as Brent crude climbed 2.1% on Monday to $61.94 per barrel. In company news, Boss Energy (ASX:BOE) disclosed that Bank of New York Mellon and related entities became a substantial holder, owning 5.03% of issued shares (20.9 million). CEO Matthew Dusci added to holdings with a total of 36,900 shares bought at AU$1.31 and AU$1.37, while Non-Executive Chair Wyatt Buck purchased 38,000 shares at AU$1.38. The materials sector fell around 1% as prices for silver and gold weakened. In corporate news, BlueScope Steel (ASX:BSL) secured an AU$76 million land sale contract in West Dapto, NSW, expected to close in H2 FY2026.

4 Tech Stocks With More Potential Than Any Cryptocurrency

December 29, 2025, 10:24 PM EST. The piece argues you don't need to chase volatile cryptocurrencies to achieve outsized gains. It touts four tech stocks as potential behemoths with growing AI and data-center exposure, arguing they offer more predictable upside than crypto. Palantir Technologies is highlighted for its rapidly growing AI Platform and strong Q3 results-63% revenue growth and 204 deals over $1M-despite sky-high forward P/E and P/S ratios; the stock has surged ~155% year-to-date and could double again in 2026. Nvidia is noted for explosive past performance and its dominant GPU position powering AI and data centers; even after a big run, the stock is positioned to continue benefiting from AI demand. The piece positions tech equities as superior growth bets through 2026.

You'll Thank Yourself in a Decade for Owning These Top TSX Dividend Stocks

December 29, 2025, 10:22 PM EST. Patient investors betting on Fortis (TSX:FTS) and Great-West Lifeco (TSX:GWO) can win over a decade thanks to steady cash flow and durable franchises. Fortis, one of Canada's largest regulated utility groups, earns a predictable return on assets, delivering more than 50 years of dividend growth and a long runway of rate-base expansion. Its earnings are resilient, with cash flow comfortably covering the dividend despite mixed markets. Great-West Lifeco provides a different path: a global insurance and wealth management platform that benefits from aging demographics and higher rates, supporting steady revenue and earnings. Together, they exemplify a patience-centered dividend approach-less flash, more reliable income and rising payouts that can compound over time in a TSX portfolio.

What If You Invested $10,000 at Each Market Top of the Last 60 Years? A Reality Check on Market Timing

December 29, 2025, 10:21 PM EST. An experiment tests market timing by placing $10,000 at five major market tops over six decades. The results are mixed and often harsh: a modest gain from the 1965 top, a sharp drop near the 1987 Black Monday crash, and sizable losses around the 2000 dot-com peak and the 2007-2009 crisis. Across the five investments, the exercise underscores how difficult it is to predict peaks and how a single poorly timed entry can erode long-term returns. The takeaway for most investors: patience and a steady, low-cost S&P 500 approach can outperform trying to time the highs, even as markets keep hitting new records.

Democratic Party Panel Frames Ssangbangwool Funds as Stock Manipulation

December 29, 2025, 10:19 PM EST. A Democratic Party panel in Korea argued the alleged Ssangbangwool-linked funds should be treated as a stock manipulation case. At a National Assembly news conference, the Special Committee on Countering Political Prosecution Manipulation urged prosecutors to verify the underlying evidence and not frame the matter politically. Rep. Park Sun-won released a three-page handwritten document detailing market activity around specific stocks, including Vivian and Nanoss, with references to price ranges, trading suspensions and par value stock splits. The panel contends the so-called $8 million transfer aimed to boost Ssangbangwool's stock price, not to fund North Korea or a gubernatorial trip. It notes inconsistent witness statements, mentions unusual 2022 stock moves, and calls for a thorough review by prosecutors, stressing the documents are not definitive but warrant further leads.

Barrick Mining (NYSE:B) P/E Insight Amid Mixed Session

December 29, 2025, 10:17 PM EST. Barrick Mining Inc. (NYSE: B) trades around $43.44 after a 5.99% intraday drop. Over the last month the shares rose 7.58%, while the stock is up 184.77% for the past year, signaling strong momentum despite the current session weakness. The key takeaway is the P/E comparison: Barrick's P/E is lower than the Metals & Mining industry average of 39.41, suggesting potential undervaluation or slower growth expectations. However, a low P/E alone isn't conclusive; investors should weigh industry trends, earnings trajectory, and business cycles. As always, use P/E alongside other metrics when assessing value and future growth prospects.

Indian Markets End Lower as IT, Realty Drag; Vedanta, Timex & SEPC Buzzing Stocks

December 29, 2025, 10:16 PM EST. Indian benchmarks closed in the red for the fourth straight session, with the Sensex down about 345 points and the Nifty off 100. Weakness was led by IT, realty, pharma, and auto stocks. Sectoral pressure caused broad declines; midcap and smallcap indices also slipped. Vedanta emerged as a top buzz stock after winning a government auction for critical minerals, while Timex Group India drew attention due to a promoter OFS at a discount. SEPC won a Rs 2.3 billion order from MOIL for a mining project, potentially boosting its earnings visibility. Analysts cited AI-related themes and the broader risk-off tone. Traders were watching Bank Nifty dynamics and global cues as the session closed in negative territory.

Singapore Post (SGX:S08): Individual investors own 59%; SingTel tops public holders at 22%

December 29, 2025, 10:15 PM EST. Singapore Post's ownership landscape shows individual investors own about 59% of SGX:S08, giving the public-facing cohort the most sway over governance and strategy. Public companies account for roughly 27%, and institutional holders about 13%, suggesting a broadly dispersed ownership base without a single controlling block. The top 25 holders control about 41% of shares, implying a degree of concentration within these groups but no dominant owner. Notably, the largest stake belongs to Singapore Telecommunications Limited (SingTel) at around 22%, a reminder that the public component can still house material stakes. With limited analyst coverage and mixed signals on growth, investors should weigh governance dynamics, potential for activist moves, and the risk of a 'crowded trade' where multiple holders adjust together.

There's a Cheap and Easy Way to Invest in Sector ETFs (Plus 2 of My Favourites) – TEC and ZUT

December 29, 2025, 10:14 PM EST. With the TSX up around 28% YTD, sector ETFs offer a simple way to adjust exposure. The piece argues a TSX tilt can miss AI-driven growth and defensive ballast. Two favorites emerge: the TD Global Technology Leaders Index ETF (TSX: TEC), a pure-tech fund that mirrors U.S. tech leaders while staying TSX-listed; ideal for growth and any AI-driven pullbacks. And the BMO Equal Weight Utilities Index ETF (TSX: ZUT), a defensive play with a ~3.4% yield and a low 0.70 beta, offering steadier cash flow as valuations shift. For balance, consider mixing TEC for tech exposure with ZUT for downside protection when your portfolio leans heavily toward financials or resources.

Bank of America CEO warns stock market will punish Americans if Fed independence falters

December 29, 2025, 10:10 PM EST. Bank of America Chairman and CEO Brian Moynihan told CBS News's Face The Nation that the stock market could punish Americans if the Federal Reserve loses its independence. In the interview, Moynihan frames central bank independence as essential for credible policy and stable markets, warning that any erosion could raise uncertainty and volatility, increase the cost of capital, and weigh on household finances. The remarks come as the political debate over replacing Jerome Powell as Fed chair heats up, underscoring how shifts in monetary autonomy can ripple through equities and borrowing costs. The exchange highlights the market's sensitivity to policy credibility and the potential flow-on effects for American investors.

SELLAS Life Sciences Stock Surges as GPS AML Trial Nears Final Analysis

December 29, 2025, 10:09 PM EST. SELLAS Life Sciences Group (SLS) is trading higher as its lead candidate, Galinpepimut-S (GPS), closes in on the final analysis of its Phase 3 REGAL trial in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The study is an overall survival (OS) trial and is set to deliver its final readout once 80 deaths occur; 72 were reported as of December 26. GPS is licensed from Memorial Sloan Kettering and targets the WT1 protein. CEO Angelos Stergiou noted continued patient dedication and that results could improve as the trial remains blinded. Enrollment ended April 2024 with 126 patients randomized. On Stocktwits, sentiment remains extremely bullish, with shares up roughly 3x year-to-date and ~239% over 12 months.

Alibaba Group (NYSE:BABA) Stock Dips 2.4% as Analysts Adjust Targets

December 29, 2025, 10:07 PM EST. Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA) slid 2.4% on Monday, trading as low as $147.21 and closing around $148.54 amid lighter-than-average volume. The session followed mixed analyst notes: Citi lifted their target to $225 with a Buy rating, JPMorgan cut to $230 with an Overweight stance, Arete lowered to Neutral with a $172 target, and Mizuho set $195, while Macquarie reiterated Outperform. Seventeen analysts rate Buy, two Hold, and one Sell. MarketBeat shows a consensus of Moderate Buy with an average target of $194. The stock has a market cap near $354B, a P/E around 20.5, and a modest beta, reflecting evolving expectations as institutional owners adjust positions.

Cyient Limited (NSE: CYIENT): 10% ROE, Growth Lag vs Industry – Is the Market Mispricing the Stock?

December 29, 2025, 10:06 PM EST. Cyient Ltd (NSE: CYIENT) recently slipped 4.9% as investors weigh its fundamentals. The company posts a trailing ROE of about 10% for the last twelve months to September 2025, indicating moderate profitability on shareholder capital. Compared with the industry average of 15%, this ROE looks thin, and earnings growth over five years (about 13%) trails the sector's ~26% pace, suggesting other drivers may have boosted profits. Cyient also has a ~49% three-year median payout ratio, implying a sizable portion of profits is retained for growth. While net income rose in the period, returns appear constrained by leverage between growth opportunities and capital allocation. Investors may want to ask whether the stock's price already reflects potential improvements in retention, efficiency, and a re-rating to the industry norm or higher growth scenarios.

GM's 2025 rally leads the pack among automakers, eclipsing Tesla and Ford

December 29, 2025, 10:03 PM EST. GM is on pace to be the top U.S.-traded automaker stock of 2025, up over 55% to a record above $80 a share. The rally follows GM's long-running argument that earnings resilience and a strong cash generation profile justify higher valuations. Barra has exercised options or sold roughly 1.8 million shares this year for more than $73 million, while owning more than 433,500 shares valued at over $35 million as of the latest filing. GM's performance outpaces Tesla's +17%, Ford's +34%, and Stellantis's -15%, with other automakers showing more modest gains. Analysts say GM's track record of shareholder returns and ongoing buybacks reinforce the bull case, aided by robust quarterly earnings that have met or beat expectations in most quarters over the past five years.

Jim Cramer's guide to investing: Buy stocks that can do well in any market

December 29, 2025, 10:02 PM EST. CNBC's Jim Cramer advises investors to buy companies with strong revenue and earnings that can prosper in any market. Focus on secular growth stocks that can endure high interest rates or a weak economy and that have the ability to scale into something enormous. Such stocks can be held for years or decades, provided you do the homework and are ready to bail if conditions deteriorate. Cramer notes that firms with low debt relative to cash flow tend to weather tough macro conditions, citing Amazon and Tesla as counterexamples to AMC. He suggests reviewing a stock's history through the Great Recession and Covid downturns to gauge resilience, and highlights the Magnificent Seven as a stock set that can justify paying up for earnings growth with strong fundamentals.

Nifty 50, Sensex set to open lower on December 30; key levels to watch

December 29, 2025, 10:01 PM EST. Trade setup for December 30 points to a subdued start for Indian benchmarks as Sensex and Nifty 50 are expected to open in the red amid thin trading and muted global cues. The Gift Nifty signals a positive start, around 25,936, though futures closed lower from the previous close. In the prior session, FIIs remained net sellers as risk appetite stayed weak, with the Sensex ending at 84,695.54 (down ~345 points) and the Nifty 50 at 25,942.10 (down ~100 points). Near-term support is seen at around 84,400-84,500, then 84,200-84,300, while resistance is framed by the 85,000-85,200 zone boosted by put-call dynamics and rising volatility. The India VIX rose to 9.7, signaling renewed caution for traders.

Aussie shares flat as banks bounce, gold retreats

December 29, 2025, 10:00 PM EST. Australian shares opened the last full trading session of the year on a subdued note, with banks helping the mood as bullion miners retreated. The S&P/ASX200 rose 0.01% to 8,727 and the All Ordinaries edged up to 9,030.1 as a gold sell-off weighed on the materials sector (-1.2%). Gold traded around US$4,335/oz and silver about US$72.63/oz after peaking earlier this week. Liontown slid 4.8% as the battery minerals complex eased, while Fortescue and other iron ore names cooled near current levels. Financials were firmer, led by CBA (+0.9% to A$161.97). Energy stocks outperformed on higher oil amid geopolitical headlines, while Droneshield jumped 3.8% on an $8.2m contract and Mesoblast gained 2.1% after debt refinancing. Year-end liquidity remains light, amplifying moves.

UiPath Rises on Morgan Stanley Upgrade to $19 Target as AI Partnerships Grow

December 29, 2025, 9:58 PM EST. UiPath (PATH) closed Monday at $16.85, up 0.06%, as Morgan Stanley lifted its price target to $19-roughly a 12.8% upside. Volume reached about 31.3 million shares, well above the three-month average of 27.1 million. In a mixed tape, the S&P 500 fell 0.35% and the Nasdaq Composite slid 0.50%. Investors are weighing UiPath's ability to translate profitability milestones into sustained AI-driven automation growth, aided by partnerships with OpenAI, Snowflake, and Nvidia. UiPath is set to join the S&P MidCap 400 on Jan. 2, 2026, with Morgan Stanley maintaining an Equal Weight rating. The move follows solid quarterly results and renewed AI ambitions underpinning upside in the stock.

Hollywood Stocks in 2025: Winners, Losers and Surprises

December 29, 2025, 9:57 PM EST. 2025 delivered a mixed bag for media and entertainment stocks as mega-deals and AI chatter reshaped investor sentiment. The broader S&P 500 rose 17.5%, but Hollywood equities showed divergent paths: WBD surged about 172% on deal talk and actual activity, while Netflix rose 5.7% on its Warner Bros. tie-in. Traditional giants like Disney finished roughly flat, up about 2.3%, and Comcast slipped roughly 20% ahead of its Versant split. Among winners, Fox Corp. jumped ~47%, with Imax, Roku, and Spotify also among top performers. The market is eyeing AI as a transformative force for content, monetization and margins, even as questions linger about streaming profitability, advertising, and industry consolidation into 2026, per Morgan Stanley.

Fiem Industries' Stock Rises 16% on Promise of Strong ROE and Earnings Growth

December 29, 2025, 9:56 PM EST. Fiem Industries has climbed about 16% in three months, prompting a closer look at its fundamentals. The standout: a trailing-12-month ROE of about 21%, with ₹2.3b of net profit on ₹11b of shareholders' equity, meaning ₹0.21 of profit for every ₹1 of equity. This ROE comfortably surpasses the industry average of 10% and aligns with a 27% five-year net income growth. Relative to peers, growth is in line with the industry's 24% trajectory, suggesting other factors-such as capital allocation or payout policy-may influence returns. The discussion also touches whether the stock's price already reflects these financials and the potential for further value based on this growth and efficiency.

Australian Shares Snap 2-Session Decline as Banks Lift ASX 200; Gold Stocks Drag

December 29, 2025, 9:55 PM EST. Australian shares finished higher, with the ASX 200 up about 0.2% to around 8,74, snapping a two-session loss. Banks led gains, with Commonwealth Bank of Australia up 1.3%, and National Australia Bank, Westpac and ANZ edging higher. Gold producers weighed on the index as bullion cooled from record highs, with Northern Star Resources down 3.3% and Evolution Mining off 4.7%. Major miners were softer, including BHP Group (-0.3%) and Rio Tinto (-0.1%). Investors awaited the Federal Reserve minutes, while in Australia the Reserve Bank of Australia held rates and signaled the next move could be a hike.

Fed Red Flags Mount as S&P 500 Rings Alarm Heading into 2026

December 29, 2025, 9:54 PM EST. The S&P 500 is priced for perfection after a multi-year rally driven by AI, but rising risks loom into 2026. The Fed has signaled uncertainty about the economy as the FOMC cut rates again in December (0.25%), the third straight reduction. Dissenters rose to three votes, underscoring growing unease. The dot plot shows a murky path: several participants foresee no further rate cuts in 2026, and some expect no cuts through 2028, complicating policy expectations. With new voting members in play, a clear 2026 rate path is hard to chart. Some links to political policy: Trump's tariffs may delay relief. A San Francisco Fed study suggests tariffs raise unemployment in the short term while inflation could trend lower now but higher later, adding to stock-market uncertainty into 2026.

Corn futures slip on thin holiday trade; cash, export data, and ethanol demand in focus

December 29, 2025, 9:53 PM EST. Corn futures fell 7-8 cents on Monday amid thin holiday trade, with nearby cash prices down 6¾ cents to $3.99¾. Export inspections totalled 1.301 MMT for the week ended Christmas, down 25.5% from the prior week but up 43.4% year over year, with Mexico, Colombia and Japan as top destinations. Marketing-year shipments rose 66.17% year over year to 25.57 MMT, the first time shipping more than 1 billion bushels before year-end since September 1. On the ethanol front, EIA data showed production slipping to 1.095 million bpd, stocks up 175k to 22.528 million, with exports up 28k bpd and refinery inputs higher by 6k bpd. March corn settled at $4.42¼, nearby cash at $3.99¾, May at $4.50¾, and July at $4.57.

Cotton Futures Dip into the Close as Oil, Dollar Edge Higher

December 29, 2025, 9:52 PM EST. Cotton futures slipped into the close, giving back some gains as traders weighed cash signals. The day's moves saw crude oil up about $1.09 to $57.83, while the US dollar index held steady near 97.70. The December 26 online auction from The Seam sold 9,181 bales at an average of 60.31 cents per pound. The Cotlook A Index added 50 points to 74.00 cents, and ICE certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,600 bales as the Adjusted World Price rose to 50.02 cents per pound. The LDP rate is now 1.98 cents. Earlier in the session, forwards showed futures: March cotton closed at 64.35, May at 65.63, and July at 66.84, all lower on the day.

Cattle Fade into the Close as Feeders Hold Gains

December 29, 2025, 9:51 PM EST. Live cattle futures finished lower by 17 to 92 cents ahead of Wednesday's December expiration, while Feeder Cattle futures closed higher, up 82 cents to $1.25. The CME Feeder Cattle Index rose $6.68 to $356.00 as of December 26. Cash cattle last week traded around $229-$230. USDA Wholesale Boxed Beef prices were mixed: Choice boxes at $349.33 (down $1.88) and Select at $345.62 (up $1.82), narrowing the box-beef spread to $3.71. USDA federally inspected slaughter was about 118,000 head, below the prior week and last year. Traders will monitor the December expiration and upcoming supply data as feeders held intraday gains despite the front-month weakness.

Wheat Markets End Monday Mixed: Winter Down, Spring Steady Amid USDA Export Data

December 29, 2025, 9:50 PM EST. Monday's wheat complex posted a mixed session, with winterwheat slipping while springwheat held firm. CBOT SRW futures faded 5-6 cents, KC HRW down 5-7 cents, while MPLSspringwheat traded steady to up a penny. USDA data showed weekly wheat exports at 302,096 MT (11.1 mbu), 52.47% below the prior week and 11.12% below year-ago levels. Bangladesh remained the top destination at 115,946 MT, followed by Thailand and the Dominican Republic. Marketing year exports for 2025/26 sit at 15.06 MMT (553.5 mbu) since June 1, up about 22% year over year. The export figures frame demand optimism amid a backdrop of mixed price action in the winter and spring wheat classes.

Lean Hog Futures Mixed on Monday as Slaughter Drops and Index Rises

December 29, 2025, 9:49 PM EST. Lean hog futures finished Monday with a mixed tone, nearby contracts trading within a dime of unchanged as volume faded. The USDA did not report a national base hog price Monday afternoon due to light activity. The CME Lean Hog Index rose 13 cents to $83.84 as of December 24. The USDA pork carcass cutout value fell $1.75 to $95.96 per cwt, with only the butt primal showing a gain. Monday's federally inspected hog slaughter was estimated at 444,000 head, down 52,000 from last week and 41,060 below the same week a year ago. Overall, price action suggests modest firmness in the front end despite softer cutout values and lighter slaughter.

Soybeans Fall Monday as Front-Months Slip; Soymeal Down, Soy Oil Rises on Export News

December 29, 2025, 9:48 PM EST. Soybeans posted 9-10 cent losses in the front months, with the cmdtyView national cash price at $9.80 3/4. Soymeal futures fell about $2.50 to $4.90/ton, while Soy Oil rose 6-10 points as crude oil rebounded. The USDA reported a private sale of 100,000 MT of soybeans to Egypt. Weekly export inspections came in at 750,312 MT (27.57 mbu), well below the prior week and year. The marketing-year total reached about 15.396 MMT shipped, roughly 46% below the same period last year. Market chatter cited China-Taiwan tensions and drills around Taiwan as potential pressure. Prices for nearby dates closed mixed: Jan 26 at $10.49 1/2, Mar 26 at $10.63 1/2, May 26 at $10.75 1/4.

HBND:CA Stock Market Analysis: AI Signals and Trading Plans for Hamilton U.S. Bond YIELD MAXIMIZER ETF

December 29, 2025, 9:47 PM EST. HBND:CA stock market update highlights AI-generated signals and a concrete trading plan for the Hamilton U.S. Bond YIELD MAXIMIZER ETF. Dated Dec 29, 2025, the plan proposes a long position: buy near 12.69 with a target of 13.01 and a stop at 12.63; and a short setup near 13.01 with a target of 12.69 and a stop at 13.08. The ratings across Near, Mid, and Long terms are Neutral. AI-generated signals for HBND:CA are summarized, with a chart available for review. The tone remains cautious, outlining specific price levels and risk controls to guide trading decisions.

Nu Holdings Stock: Growth Momentum and Margin Health Ahead of February Q4 Earnings

December 29, 2025, 9:46 PM EST. Nu Holdings (NU) has outperformed the S&P 500 over the last year as it expands its Latin American fintech footprint via NuBank. The company has doubled its customer base to about 127 million and lifted ARPAC from $4.50 to $13.40, while maintaining a flat monthly cost to serve around $0.90, suggesting strong margin discipline even as it cross-sells more services. Revenue growth cooled but remained robust, with GAAP profitability achieved in 2023 and continued EPS gains in 2024; by 2025, growth in customers slowed modestly (YOY 16% in Q3 2025) but the active customer base remained resilient with margins supported by a stable cost structure. Investors will weigh the growth runway in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia against valuation; a February earnings print could re-rate the stock depending on ARPAC mix and unit economics.

Coca-Cola 2026 Outlook: Can Organic Growth Stay Resilient Amid Rising Competition

December 29, 2025, 9:45 PM EST. Coca-Cola CO enters 2026 with durable organic growth momentum. In 3Q25, the company delivered growth at the high end of its long-term model, driven by steady volume gains, strong pricing/mix execution and disciplined cost control, while gaining value share for the 18th straight quarter. For 2026, management highlights levers such as moderating pricing intensity, rebalancing toward affordability and volume, and selective premiumization where demand supports it. Ongoing productivity initiatives-from supply chain efficiencies to marketing effectiveness-could underpin margin expansion as brands and innovation stay funded. Coca-Cola's diversified footprint supports growth, with Asia Pacific stability offset by gains in Latin America and Africa. The question remains whether streams from rivals PepsiCo and Keurig Dr Pepper can match this organic growth amid currency volatility and shifting consumer behavior.

ASX to slip amid precious metals' sell-off

December 29, 2025, 9:44 PM EST. The Australian sharemarket steadied on the penultimate trading day, with the S&P/ASX 200 inching higher as energy stocks rise on firmer oil prices. The gains offset a precious metals-driven rout in mining stocks, helping the index trade around 8,734, up 8.3 points at midday. While traders grapple with high valuations and the prospect of rate hikes, the market remains on track for a third straight annual gain. The session follows a brief slide in previous sessions as investors digest macro cues and earnings, with sector contrasts underpinning a cautious but resilient tone for year-end trading.

Micron stock climbs ~3% as DRAM prices rise; AI demand, HBM in focus

December 29, 2025, 9:43 PM EST. Micron Technology (MU) closed up about 3.4% after-hours as DRAM spot prices rose again, helping lift shares to $294.40 on roughly 25.6 million shares. The price move underscores a pricing-driven segment of semiconductors where small shifts in memory costs can flow into earnings. Investors are watching whether tight supply supports higher price contracts as AI demand continues to push capacity toward higher-end products, notably HBM used in data-center servers. Data from DRAMeXchange showed spot gains across DDR5 and DDR4 products, while reports of scarce supply have begun to show in downstream pricing. MU also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.115 payable Jan. 14, 2026. The big question remains whether higher spot prices translate into longer-term pricing with major customers.

Undervalued US Stocks Based On Cash Flows: December 2025 Highlights From The Screen

December 29, 2025, 9:40 PM EST. Markets extended weekly gains as investors hunt for stocks trading well below fair value. A cash-flow-based screen flags a slate of names with substantial discounts to intrinsic value-roughly 19% to 50% below estimated fair value. Notable entries include ZYME, UMBF, SRAD, SMA, SDGR, PERF, NIC, DDL, CWBC, and COLB, each showing meaningful upside to their estimated fair value. In larger caps, STX (Seagate) and CPNG (Coupang) also trade under fair value, but carry headwinds like high debt, insider selling, and cybersecurity/legal risks. The screen highlights a potential value rotation as growth remains robust but selective, offering what some investors view as compelling risk-adjusted opportunities into December 2025.

Kogan.com updates on-market share buy-back progress

December 29, 2025, 9:38 PM EST. Kogan.com (AU:KGN) provided an update on its ongoing on-market share buy-back: as of 29 December 2025, it has repurchased 10,437,502 shares prior to the previous trading day, with a further 57,883 shares bought back the prior session. The move underscores continued execution of its capital-management program and could support the stock's price and EPS. The latest analyst view remains a Hold with a target of A$3.50. Year-to-date, KGN is down about 41.9%; the market cap sits near A$344.8M and average daily volume around 468,967. Technical sentiment remains Sell, signaling mixed near-term momentum despite the buy-back progress.

Wheaton Precious Metals Corp (WPM) Stock Price: Live Quotes, Charts & News

December 29, 2025, 9:37 PM EST.Wheaton Precious Metals Corp (WPM) is showing a intraday drop of -6.56 (-5.28%) on the live quote page, with a Candlestick chart covering 1D through 5Y. The report highlights a trending prompt about a 'Bullish Fuel' indicator flagging top names, hinting at possible outsized moves. However, there is no analyst ratings data: the Average Price Target is listed as $0 based on 0 analyst ratings in the last 3 months. Earnings data is also unavailable: 'We don't currently have information about Wheaton Precious Metals Corp's earnings.' The page combines live quotes, charts, and narrative prompts but current data for WPM remains incomplete.

Jim Cramer's Guide to Investing: Sectors to Avoid for Long-Term Gains

December 29, 2025, 9:35 PM EST. CNBC's Jim Cramer argued that investors should filter out cohorts unlikely to deliver long-term gains. He emphasized that the stock-picking process becomes easier when you remove areas prone to inconsistency. 'The only real defense in the stock market is consistent growth,' he said, urging a portfolio built for the long haul. Cramer singled out several groups: cyclical companies such as full-priced retailers and discretionary entertainment firms, whose earnings swing with the economy; financials including banks and insurers facing rate shocks; speculative firms with no earnings that thrive only in a bull market; and firms with low single-digit growth and high fixed costs like department stores and airlines. By removing these from consideration, he argues, investors can focus on names with durable, long-term appeal.

Euronext N.V. Consolidates as Volumes Shrink and Investors Weigh Growth vs Infrastructure Play

December 29, 2025, 9:34 PM EST. Euronext N.V. shares have drifted sideways as volumes shrink across Europe, forcing investors to weigh resilient cash flows against macro headwinds and a cautious analyst stance. The stock trades around the mid-80s euros, with a 52-week range of the low-70s to the low-90s signaling a clear consolidation rather than momentum. Sentiment is neutral to mildly bullish as bad news is priced in, but growth clarity remains elusive in a world of thinner trading volumes. Euronext's earnings hinge on routine cash flows from listing fees, data sales and clearing revenues, reinforcing an infrastructure/utility profile more than a high-growth story. Over the last year, returns have been single-digit, cushioned by a steady dividend and a balanced risk profile amid macro headwinds.

India 2026 Outlook: Domestic Demand to Drive Capital Goods, Industrials; Financials Lead on Quality

December 29, 2025, 9:33 PM EST. India's stock market in 2026 is likely to ride on domestic investment and manufacturing. Capital goods and engineering-ledindustrial sectors, supported by multi-year order books and public capex, should offer solid visibility. Select industrials tied to domestic demand may outperform as public investment sustains growth. Financials remain core to portfolios, but leadership could become more differentiated, with emphasis on balance-sheet quality and underwriting discipline rather than pure loan growth. Investors will favor earnings quality, cash generation, and prudent risk management as capex cycles and policy support underpin durable franchises.

3 Stocks Estimated To Be Priced Below Value In December 2025

December 29, 2025, 9:30 PM EST. Stocks appear near record highs as investors hunt for undervalued opportunities. The piece highlights stocks trading at a discount to fair value based on cash-flow analyses, including ZYME, UMBF, SRAD, SMA, SDGR, PERF, NIC, DDL, CWBC, and COLB, with discounts around 48-50%. It also examines Seagate Technology and Coupang as examples, noting Seagate's high debt and insider selling, and Coupang's cybersecurity challenges. The takeaway: a screen flagging stocks with substantial discounts to fair value could offer upside if fundamentals hold and risk is managed. Investors should weigh growth forecasts against balance-sheet risk and regulatory issues.

Circle (CRCL) stock slips as prediction-market growth collides with year-end trading

December 29, 2025, 9:27 PM EST. Circle (CRCL) shares fell about 0.8% in afternoon trading, around $80. The move underscores how the stock doubles as a direct bet on stablecoins and on crypto adoption shaped by interest-rate expectations and regulatory scrutiny. A Clear Street note flags prediction markets as a potential long-term growth driver for Circle and other infrastructure players, arguing the market could reach roughly $14 billion by 2030 with about $1.2 trillion in annual trading volume. The stock's fate will depend on USDC resilience, the regulatory backdrop, and the economics of reserve yields. Traders eye Circle's next earnings window, expected mid-February 2026, to gauge momentum and whether the shares can hold above the $80 level into year-end positioning.

Circle (CRCL) stock slips as prediction-market growth call collides with year-end trading

December 29, 2025, 9:26 PM EST. Circle shares slipped about 0.8% in afternoon trading, hovering near the $80 area as CRCL trades on the NYSE. A note from Clear Street argues that prediction markets could be a long-term tailwind for Circle and its crypto peers, with a potential market up to $14 billion by 2030 and roughly $1.2 trillion in annual volume. The move comes as investors weigh how stablecoins-led by USDC-will fare amid rising regulatory scrutiny and shifting interest rates. Circle is eyeing an earnings window in mid-February (around Feb. 11, 2026). Traders are watching whether the stock can hold above the $80 level into year-end and how new research and sector headwinds may shape the stock's path.

Stock Market Today: Dow and Nasdaq Close Lower as Gold and Silver Retreat

December 29, 2025, 9:25 PM EST. U.S. equities ended lower as the Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq Composite slipped about 0.5% and the S&P 500 eased ~0.3%. Tech megacaps, including Nvidia (-1.8%) and Tesla (-2.2%), weighed on a session that followed higher margin requirements that spooked risk appetite after a strong year-end rally. In commodities, silver futures tumbled ~7-9%-the largest one-day drop since 2021-while gold futures fell ~2-3% to around $4,330.90 per troy ounce. The pullback capped gains for the year, though the three benchmarks remain well higher: S&P 500 up ~17%, Dow about +14%, and Nasdaq over +22% in 2025.

Stock Market Today: Dow and Nasdaq Close Lower as Gold and Silver Fall

December 29, 2025, 9:23 PM EST. U.S. stocks closed lower as the Dow and Nasdaq slipped about 0.5% on a retreat in gold and silver futures after higher margin requirements and profit-taking following a year-end rally. The S&P 500 dipped roughly 0.3%, while mega-cap tech names pressured markets, with Nvidia, Oracle and Tesla among the laggards. Nvidia fell about 1.8% and Tesla about 2.2%, amid concerns over capital allocation and EV demand. Silver futures tumbled 7-9%, the largest one-day drop since 2021, while gold declined 2-3% as trend relief set in. Yet, the indices remain sturdy for 2025, with gains of roughly 17% for the S&P 500, 14% for the Dow, and over 22% for the Nasdaq year to date.

ASX Preview: Oil Rally Lifts Australian Shares as BlueScope Lands AU$76M NSW Deal

December 29, 2025, 9:20 PM EST. Australian shares look set to rise as oil prices jump and tensions in Yemen prompt supply concerns. Precious metals retreat weighs on sentiment, with gold, silver, and platinum trimming gains amid thin trading conditions. In corporate news, BlueScope Steel secured an AU$76 million contract for the sale of land in New South Wales. Origin Energy is investing AU$140 million in Kraken Technologies' AU$1 billion equity raise, securing roughly 19.6% of the firm as Kraken plans to separate from Octopus Energy by mid-2026. The prior session saw the Nasdaq and Dow slide while the local index finished lower, underscoring a cautious tone ahead of the week.

ASX to Rise as Oil Surges; BlueScope Steel Wins AU$76 Million NSW Land Sale Contract

December 29, 2025, 9:19 PM EST. Australian shares are poised to rise after oil prices climbed by more than $1 a barrel amid tensions in Yemen, signaling potential supply disruptions. A retreat in precious metals weighed on sentiment amid thin holiday trading and tighter liquidity. US indices ended lower, with the Nasdaq and Dow off about 0.5% and the S&P 500 down 0.4%. In corporate news, BlueScope Steel (ASX: BSL) won an AU$76 million contract for the sale of land in West Dapto, New South Wales. Origin Energy (ASX: ORG) is investing AU$140 million in Kraken Technologies' equity raise, securing a 19.6% direct stake as Kraken plans to separate from Octopus Energy by mid-2026. Australia's benchmark index fell 0.4% to 8,725.70 on Monday.

Stock futures little changed after S&P 500 posts back-to-back losses – Live updates

December 29, 2025, 9:18 PM EST. Stock futures were essentially flat overnight as the S&P 500 logged back-to-back losses amid pressure in the tech sector. S&P 500 futures were near unchanged, Dow futures up a touch, and Nasdaq 100 futures slipped. In regular trading, the S&P 500 fell 0.35% and the Nasdaq Composite dropped about 0.5%, with the Dow down roughly 249 points. Traders rotated out top AI winners, sending Nvidia and Palantir lower while Oracle and Tesla also retreated. Losses in the materials group, including Newmont, weighed on sentiment. Investors are watching home-price data and the Federal Reserve minutes later this week. Note: markets close for New Year's Day on Thursday; year-to-date gains remain robust across the major indices.

Stock futures little changed after S&P 500 posts back-to-back losses: Live updates

December 29, 2025, 9:17 PM EST. Stock futures were little changed overnight after the S&P 500 posted consecutive losses as investors weigh tech-sector pressure. S&P 500 futures were nearly flat, while Dow futures ticked up about 0.01% and Nasdaq-100 futures eased 0.1%. In regular trading, the S&P 500 fell about 0.35% and the Nasdaq Composite slipped 0.5%, with the Dow dropping around 249 points (0.51%). Traders rotated out some of this year's AI winners, sending Nvidia lower by more than 1% and Palantir down about 2.4%; Oracle shed 1.3%, and Tesla tumbled over 3%. The day's losses broadened to the materials group, as Newmont slid 5.6% after silver futures posted their worst day since 2021. Home price data and the Fed's December minutes due Tuesday will influence sentiment as markets brace for a NY close.

Tuesday's big stock stories: what's likely to move the market in the next session

December 29, 2025, 9:15 PM EST. Stocks @ Night previews Tuesday's session after the latest S&P 500 losses as investors parse key data and the latest from Fed minutes. Tuesday brings the Case-Shiller housing index and other housing data, with markets eyeing the Fed signals for policy clues. Government yields sit higher, with the 10-year around 4.11% and the two-year near 3.45%. The real estate group remains the laggard of 2025, though names like Welltower, Ventas, and CBRE show relative strength while others lag. In retail, names such as Kohl's and Best Buy have struggled, even as some consumer plays rebound. AI themes show up in restaurant chains, while defense-tech like Elbit Systems' Iron Beam adds a longer-term growth angle. The Nasdaq and S&P 500 are up year-to-date, at roughly 21.5% and 17.4% respectively.

Dollar Gains and Precious Metals Sink on Year-End Liquidation

December 29, 2025, 9:15 PM EST. Markets wrap a year-end liquidation with the dollar marginally higher and gold and silver tumbling. The DXY edged up about 0.02% as stock weakness and a stronger-than-expected November pending home sales supported the greenback, though the move was capped after the Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook fell to -10.9. Traders price in a roughly -25 bp FOMC cut at the Jan meeting with a larger -50 bp cut expected in 2026; the Fed is expanding liquidity via about $40B/month in T-bills. The euro weakened on war talks and lower German yields, while the yen firmed on a BOJ policy signal. Gold and silver sank, with February gold down about 4.6% and March silver about -8.7% as risk-off persisted.

Dollar Gains, Precious Metals Sink on Year-End Liquidation

December 29, 2025, 9:13 PM EST. The dollar edged higher as risk-off liquidity returned on year-end liquidation, while gold and silver tumbled. The DXY rose about 0.02% as tepid stock weakness supported demand for dollars, aided by a stronger Nov pending home sales report (+3.3% m/m). The Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook unexpectedly deteriorated to -10.9, weighing on risk sentiment. EUR/USD drifted lower amid stalled Russia-Ukraine talks and easing eurozone yields; USD/JPY slipped as the BoJ signaled policy restraint and lower T-note yields kept yen bid. Gold and silver collapsed, with February COMEX gold down roughly 4.6% and March silver off about 8.7% as risk-off liquidation dominated. Traders priced little chance of near-term ECB tightening, and markets debated the path of Fed policy, with rate-cut odds in 2026 and ongoing Fed liquidity measures cited as headwinds for the dollar.

Top fund managers reveal 17 stock picks and the 2026 AI and defensive-trend playbook

December 29, 2025, 9:12 PM EST. Australia's top fund managers signal a shift from last year's AI megacaps to a broader AI narrative in 2026. Armina Rosenberg of Minotaur Capital says the biggest gains in 2025 came from a few mega-cap players focused on the AI infrastructure layer, but 2026 winners may come from providers that build the components enabling large-scale AI computing. The outlook also features a tilt toward defensive sectors such as energy and health, offering resilience as markets reprice risk. Some stocks labeled as apparent AI losers could stage a comeback, while diversification across theme and cyclicals remains key. Chanticleer's James Thomson frames the debate as a transition year, where stock picks and narratives evolve beyond the early AI surge toward a more nuanced investment cycle.

Plug Power Stock: Is a Revival on the Horizon Amid Improving Cash Burn and GenEco Growth

December 29, 2025, 9:11 PM EST. Plug Power is narrowing its cash burn and moving toward profitability. The GenEco electrolyzer unit is gaining traction, with Q3 revenue of $177 million and electrolyzer revenue of $65 million (+46% sequential). Management expects electrolyzer revenue to around $200 million in 2025, a ~33% increase. The company cut operating cash burn by about 53% to roughly $90 million in Q3. The stock has surged ~87% year-to-date after a long downturn, but execution risk remains. Reaching a breakeven gross margin in 2025 depends on higher equipment sales, margin gains in services, and lower hydrogen costs. Other uncertainties include project timing, manufacturing challenges, an $8 billion opportunity funnel, and a liquidity initiative that has not closed. Investors may want to watch quarterly progress before committing.

Euronext N.V. Tests Investor Patience Amid Muted Volumes

December 29, 2025, 9:09 PM EST. Euronext N.V., Europe's largest market operator, faces a test of patience as subdued volumes and rate uncertainty weigh on its stock. The shares have drifted into the mid-€80s, well below earlier highs, with a three-month downtrend that underscores underwhelming participation despite a resilient franchise. Investors weigh whether the consolidation around Paris, Amsterdam, and other venues hides latent upside, or simply awaits a pickup in trading activity, listings, and corporate actions. Technically, the stock sits near the lower end of its 52-week range, with a support zone forming beneath a stubborn resistance barrier. Over the past year, the stock is up roughly 10-12% and, with a mid-single-digit dividend yield, total returns hover in the mid-teens. The path forward hinges on data confirming revival in inflows and IPO activity.

Ahead of Market: 10 factors that could drive Monday's stock action

December 29, 2025, 9:06 PM EST. Indian benchmarks closed lower on Friday as thin year-end volumes and persistent FII outflows kept risk appetite muted. The Sensex slid about 367 points to 85,041 and the Nifty 50 ended near 26,042, with large caps under pressure while metals and consumer durables held up. Analysts say the mood remains cautious ahead of earnings and with little fresh catalysts, dampening the Santa Claus rally surge. On the global stage, U.S. stocks drifted near record highs in a thin session. Technically, the Nifty breached the 21-EMA, suggesting near-term weakness unless it stabilizes above 26,000 for a possible move to 26,200. Key watch items include FIIs, earnings, and directional cues in top names.

Stocks Settle Lower as Weakness in Big Tech Weighs on Markets

December 29, 2025, 9:02 PM EST. Major averages closed lower Monday, with the S&P 500 down 0.35%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average off 0.51%, and the Nasdaq 100 slipping 0.46%. March equity futures extended the retreat, as megacap tech weakness weighed on sentiment. Crude oil climbed more than 2%, helping energy names despite broader losses; meanwhile, silver and platinum tumbled from fresh highs amid profit-taking and margin pressures. Bond yields edged lower, with the 10-year note around 4.10%. Domestic data were mixed: pending home sales rose 3.3% and the Dallas Fed outlook fell. Week ahead centers on the FOMC minutes and payrolls data, with rates seen mostly intact for now as markets price in a modest chance of a January cut.

Foseco India Limited (NSE: FOSECOIND) Shows Weakness Despite Strong Fundamentals: Should Prospective Shareholders Buy?

December 29, 2025, 9:01 PM EST. Foseco India (NSE:FOSECOIND) has slipped about 7.9% over the past quarter, but its ROE of 21% and solid earnings growth point to upside potential. The stock's weakness may reflect sentiment rather than deteriorating fundamentals, as the company posted double-digit net income growth over five years and outpaced its industry's growth. The article explains how ROE measures efficiency, how profit retention influences growth, and why high ROE coupled with prudent payout can support valuations. Investors should weigh whether future earnings growth is already priced in and how the company's capital allocation could sustain returns. With a favorable industry comparison and robust profitability metrics, the stock merits closer scrutiny before leaping in.

Australian shares edge higher as financials offset mining losses

December 29, 2025, 8:59 PM EST. Australian shares edged higher in thin year-end trade, with financials lifting the ASX 200 while weakness in miners and gold names limited gains. The index rose about 0.2% to 8,741, tracking a stronger close after a flat session on Monday and capping a year that could finish up over 7%. Commonwealth Bank of Australia climbed to a near two-month high, supporting the sector, even as BHP slipped and Rio Tinto steadied. Gold miners, including Evolution Mining and Northern Star Resources, fell as bullion pared record highs. Investors await the Fed minutes for clues on the policy path, even as the domestic central bank held rates in December.

David Sacks Signals Potential Exit From California Over Billionaire Tax; Markets Watch

December 29, 2025, 8:58 PM EST. Stock market note: David Sacks, former PayPal COO and White House advisor on AI/crypto, hinted he could relocate from California in response to the proposed 'Billionaire Tax' – a 5% net-worth confiscation that reportedly applies to realized gains already taxed. Sacks described the measure as not just an unrealized-gains tax. The exchange followed DeSantis' critique and commentary from Patrick Bet-David, with Sacks cryptically replying, 'Who said I haven't?' The debate has spurred warnings from hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman about California's tax approach potentially eroding the state's economic base. Investors are watching for potential outflows of capital from California's tech and venture capital communities, which could influence funding markets, tax receipts, and regional equity valuations.

DigitalBridge Group Stock Rises on SoftBank Buyout: A $4 Billion AI Data-Center Deal

December 29, 2025, 8:57 PM EST. DigitalBridge Group surged in late December as SoftBank unveiled plans to acquire the company in a deal with an enterprise value near $4 billion. In the joint press release, SoftBank will pay $16 per share in cash, a premium over DigitalBridge's close around $15.26 the same day, sparking a mixed reception from investors who question deal certainty. Still, the transaction highlights a bullish setup for AI-driven infrastructure: DigitalBridge operates data-center hardware and benefits from rising demand to support new and upgraded facilities for increasingly powerful AI workloads. The skepticism mirrors past SoftBank missteps with ventures like WeWork, but the deal size is smaller and more focused. If completed, the deal would underscore a pathway for AI data centers through traditional infrastructure buyers, though investors should weigh deal certainty against the price path in the near term.

Ahead of Market: 10 catalysts set to decide stock market action on Monday

December 29, 2025, 8:56 PM EST. Indian benchmarks closed lower on Friday as thin year-end volumes kept profit booking in heavyweights. The Sensex fell 367 points to 85,041.45 and the Nifty 50 slipped to 26,042.3. Analysts attribute the move to light participation, cautious mood ahead of earnings, and ongoing FII outflows weighing on risk appetite. Large-cap names underperformed; metals and consumer durables held some ground while IT, autos and banks remained pressured. In the US, major indices hovered near record highs in thin post-holiday trade, while Europe was mostly closed. Technically, the Nifty has slipped below the 21-EMA on the hourly chart, with near-term support around 26,000 and a possible move to 26,200 if 26,000 holds. Key movers by turnover include Hindustan Copper, RVNL, IRFC, and HDFC Bank.

Raffles Medical Group (SGX: BSL) three-year underperformance as EPS declines and TSR lags

December 29, 2025, 8:53 PM EST. Over the past three years, Raffles Medical Group (SGX: BSL) has underperformed the market: the stock is about 27% lower while the market rose around 54%. The decline mirrors a persistent EPS decline (about 15% CAGR), though the share price drop has been less severe than the earnings fall. The TSR over three years was -21%, yet dividends boosted the total return, delivering a 25% TSR in the last twelve months. The article notes a warning sign to watch and cautions that the stock may not be the best buy, urging investors to scan other opportunities and consider growth forecasts. A broader, careful review of fundamentals and risk is advised before trading.

Raffles Medical Group (SGX:BSL) underperforms over 3 years as EPS slides

December 29, 2025, 8:52 PM EST. Raffles Medical Group (SGX:BSL) has struggled for investors over the past three years: the stock is down 27%, versus a market gain of about 54%. Meanwhile, EPS fell about 15% per year on a compound basis, and the 3-year share-price decline (~10% CAGR) lags the earnings drop. The market may have priced in some weakness, or sentiment may be mixed. In total return terms, the TSR over the last 3 years was -21%, though dividends boosted returns. The last 12 months yielded a TSR of about 25%, still below the market average. A single warning sign has been spotted, suggesting it may not be the best stock to buy right now. Investors should review earnings, revenue, and cash flow before deciding.

Ahead of Monday: Key drivers for Indian equities as market eyes year-end flows

December 29, 2025, 8:51 PM EST. Indian indices closed lower on Friday as thin year-end trading and FII outflows weighed on sentiment. The Sensex fell about 367 points to 85,041.45 and the Nifty 50 slipped to 26,042.3, breaching the 26,050 mark. Analysts said broad profit booking in heavyweights amid cautious mood and fading Santa Claus rally optimism, with IT, autos, and banks leading the declines while metals and consumer durables held up. On the global side, US indices hovered near records in light post-Christmas trade, offering little spark. Technically, the Nifty remained below the 21 EMA on the hourly chart, with the RSI in bearish territory; a hold above 26,000 could target 26,200, whereas a break below may extend weakness.

Raffles Medical Group: 3-Year Underperformance vs Market; EPS Decline, Mixed TSR

December 29, 2025, 8:49 PM EST. Raffles Medical Group (SGX: BSL) has underperformed the market over the last three years, with the stock down about 27% versus a ~54% market gain. The downside was driven by a 15% CAGR decline in EPS over three years, while the share price fell 10% annually, suggesting investors may have priced in some deterioration. Despite the EPS slump, the company's dividends boosted total shareholder return (TSR), with a -21% TSR over three years that still beats the price return, and a 25% TSR over the last twelve months-though still below the broader market. The longer-term picture remains mixed; one warning sign has been identified, and the stock may not be the best buy for all investors. Readers are advised to review a free list of names with growing earnings before investing.

Buffett's $381B Warning as Berkshire CEO Transition Signals Cautious 2026 Outlook

December 29, 2025, 8:47 PM EST. Buffett's latest moves amount to a $381 billion cash build-up and a cautious stance as he hands the investing reins to Greg Abel. The message, though not spoken aloud, signals a shift in risk appetite for the long-time Oracle of Omaha. While Buffett remains chairman, his successor will steer decisions, and investors will scrutinize his last acts as CEO. The billionaire has been a net seller for 12 quarters, amassing a record cash pile as he cites few compelling opportunities amid stretched valuations-illustrated by the CAPE ratio-and a preference for value investing. For 2026, the takeaway is discipline: Berkshire may deploy capital slowly but decisively when opportunities meet Buffett's valuation standards.

M-tron Industries Files Form 25 to Remove Warrants from NYSE American Listing

December 29, 2025, 8:46 PM EST. NYSE American LLC filed Form 25 to notify removal from listing and/or registration under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act for M-tron Industries, Inc. The action applies to Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock, expiring on or before April 25, 2028. The filing, dated 2025-12-29, lists the issuer's Orlando, FL address and is signed by an authorized NYSE American representative. The move signals delisting and deregistration of the warrants from trading on the exchange. Investors should monitor subsequent notices for implications on liquidity, transferability, and regulatory status, and consider any impact on holders' rights.

Buffett's $381 Billion Cash Hoard Signals Caution as Berkshire Passes CEO Reins to Abel

December 29, 2025, 8:43 PM EST. Buffett is entering his final days as Berkshire Hathaway's CEO, but he'll stay on as chairman while Greg Abel takes over the investment reins. His recent moves-rather than words-deliver a $381 billion cash hoard and a clear warning to Wall Street: valuations matter. Buffett has been a net seller for 12 quarters, hinting at caution amid lofty markets and a record CAPE ratio. Berkshire's long-term, value-focused approach has driven market-beating returns, and the Oracle of Omaha still anchors strategy. The message for 2026? Expect capital preservation and selective buying under new leadership. Investors should watch for how Abel and Buffett steer quality over hype, maintain discipline, and deploy cash when opportunities arise.

Petrobras Notes Delisted from NYSE: 8.75% Global Notes Due 2026 Removed

December 29, 2025, 8:42 PM EST. NYSE LLC has filed a Form 25 to remove Petrobras – Petroleo Brasileiro SA's 8.750% Global Notes due 2026 from listing and registration on the NYSE. The issuer, headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, is issuing the notice under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, dated 2025-12-29 and signed by Anthony Sozzi, Analyst, Market Watch. The delisting marks a reduction in the notes' NYSE presence; the securities may continue to exist or trade on other venues at the broker's discretion. Investors should consult their brokers for current trading venues, liquidity implications, and any transfer steps related to the delisting.

Buffett's $381 Billion Warning: Berkshire's CEO Transition Signals 2026 Outlook

December 29, 2025, 8:41 PM EST. Buffett is entering his final days as Berkshire Hathaway's CEO, with decision-making handed to Greg Abel while Buffett remains chairman. His moves have produced a $381 billion cash pile, a de facto warning to Wall Street that he sees few attractive opportunities at current prices. The world's most famous value investor has long preached patience and a mindset of holding quality stocks for the long term-often joking that his ideal holding period is 'forever.' Berkshire's disciplined sale of stocks and building cash suggests valuation signals are flashing red, even as the market hits record levels. History, and the CAPE ratio context on the S&P 500, points to how 2026 could unfold if price versus earnings reverts. Investors will watch Buffett's legacy and Abel's stewardship closely.

M-tron Industries, Inc. Form 25: Removal from NYSE American Listing of Warrants

December 29, 2025, 8:40 PM EST. NYSE American LLC filed a Form 25 on 2025-12-29 to remove M-tron Industries, Inc.'s Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock from listing and registration under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The affected class is the warrants expiring on or before April 25, 2028, with the issuer listed at 2525 Shader Road, Orlando, Florida. The filing states the exchange has reasonable grounds to believe it meets the requirements for filing the Form 25 and notes the notification was signed by an authorized representative. The notice references compliance with 17 CFR 240.19d-1. Investors should monitor for confirmation of the removal and any trading implications.

M-tron Industries, Inc. Files Form 25 to Remove From NYSE American Listing (Warrants Expiring 2028)

December 29, 2025, 8:39 PM EST. M-tron Industries, Inc. has filed a Form 25 with the SEC to notify a removal from listing and/or registration on the NYSE American LLC. The class affected is Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock expiring on or before April 25, 2028. The notification is dated 2025-12-29 and signed by Tyler Mastronardi, Analyst, Market Watch. The issuer's address is listed as Orlando, Florida. This marks the formal step in the delisting process from the NYSE American LLC market.

Plug Power Stock: Stabilizing After a 99% Drop, But Turnaround Remains Unclear

December 29, 2025, 8:38 PM EST. Plug Power (PLUG) is not collapsing, but a real turnaround remains uncertain. After a near-99% drop from its split-adjusted high, the stock has revived about 87% this year as losses narrow and fundraising pressure eases. Q3 results beat expectations with revenue of $177 million and EPS -$0.12, and cash burn improved to about $90 million. The GenEco electrolyzer business showed 46% sequential growth to $65 million, with management guiding about $200 million in electrolyzer revenue for 2025 (a ~33% YoY rise) and a 230 MW pipeline across North America, Europe and Australia. Risks include the path to breakeven gross margin by 2025, reliance on higher equipment sales, and ongoing project timing and manufacturing challenges. A $275 million liquidity boost tied to monetizing electricity rights remains unclosed, keeping the stock on a wait-and-see path.

Petrobras NYSE Notes PBR: 8.750% Global Notes due 2026 Removed from Listing

December 29, 2025, 8:36 PM EST. Brazilian state-controlled oil company Petrobras (NYSE: PBR) has filed a Form 25 to remove its 8.750% Global Notes due 2026 from listing and registration on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The issuer, PETROBRAS – PETROLEO BRASILEIRO SA, seeks delisting under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, according to the notification dated 2025-12-29. The move, filed by NYSE and signed by an authorized official, indicates the class of notes will be removed from listing and registration. The notes are guaranteed by Petrobras. Investors should review the Form 25 filing for details on the delisting mechanics and any related investor rights or post-delisting disclosures.

Crypto Slump Erases 2025 Gains as Trump-Inspired Optimism Fails to Sustain Market

December 29, 2025, 8:35 PM EST. Crypto markets reversed 2025 gains as Trump's pro-crypto rhetoric failed to counter macro headwinds. The sector shed about $1 trillion in value after an October surge saw Bitcoin peak at $126,000, only to tumble days later on news of tariffs on China. A 24-hour wave of liquidations, totaling roughly $19 billion, underscored volatility, while Ethereum slumped around 40% in a month. The Trump administration's initial push for a favorable regulatory framework and even a digital assets working group offered optimism, but tighter policy and risk-on dynamics prevailed. By December, Eric Trump's fund faced notable losses as American Bitcoin Corp reported a roughly $1 billion drawdown. Traders warn that macro forces remain the dominant driver for crypto sentiment.

Petrobras (PBR) 8.750% Global Notes Due 2026 Delisted from NYSE (Form 25)

December 29, 2025, 8:34 PM EST. Petrobras (PETROBRAS – PETROLEO BRASILEIRO SA) has had its 8.750% Global Notes due 2026 removed from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), according to a Form 25 filing. The NYSE LLC notified removal from listing and/or registration under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The filing, dated 2025-12-29 and signed by an NYSE official, indicates the notes are now delisted. This is a regulatory step in the delisting process and the issuer is Petrobras. Investors should review the Form 25 for specifics.

Lululemon proxy fight heats up as Chip Wilson nominates board candidates; Elliott backs Jane Nielsen

December 29, 2025, 8:33 PM EST. Lululemon investors are facing a leadership and governance reshuffle after founder Chip Wilson nominated three candidates to join the board in a Monday proxy fight, amid news that CEO Calvin McDonald will step down in 2026. Wilson still owns about 9.9 million shares (8.4% stake). The proxy slate includes former On Running co-CEO Marc Maurer, former ESPN CMO Laura Gentile, and former Activision CEO Eric Hirshberg. Interim leadership will be guided by Meghan Frank and André Maestrini until a new CEO is named. Activist firm Elliott Investment Management has taken a roughly $1 billion stake and is pushing for former Ralph Lauren executive Jane Nielsen to take the helm. Lululemon recently beat estimates, signaling a difficult path but potential for a rebound with stable leadership.

Crypto slump erases 2025 gains as Trump-backed optimism fades

December 29, 2025, 8:30 PM EST. By year-end 2025, the crypto market erased roughly $1 trillion in value as macro headwinds overwhelmed optimism surrounding crypto. Bitcoin surged to an all-time high of about $126,000 in October, only to slide after reports of 100% tariffs on China, triggering a $19 billion, 24-hour liquidation-the largest on record. Ethereum sank about 40% in the following month, and Eric Trump's crypto venture saw similar losses. Despite a pro-crypto stance from the administration, policy shifts and tight monetary conditions dampened sentiment. In March, a new strategic cryptocurrency reserve sparked a 62% rally in three reserve coins, lifting Bitcoin to around $94,164 briefly. By November Bitcoin traded below $81k, then December brought fresh declines, with major holder Strategy cutting earnings forecasts and American Bitcoin Corp erasing roughly $1 billion in value. Macro forces still drive markets more than politics.

Lululemon faces proxy fight as founder Chip Wilson nominates board slate; Elliott pushes for new leadership

December 29, 2025, 8:25 PM EST. Founder Chip Wilson launched a proxy fight at Lululemon (LULU), nominating three board candidates-former On Running co-CEO Marc Maurer, Laura Gentile, and Eric Hirshberg. Wilson still owns 9.9 million shares, about an 8.4% stake, and the stock rose about 1% after the report, though the year-to-date slide remains steep. The move comes as CEO Calvin McDonald plans to step down in January 2026; interim co-CEOs Meghan Frank and André Maestrini will lead in the meantime, with chair Marti Morfitt staying on. Activist Elliott Investment Management has taken roughly a $1 billion position and is urging former Ralph Lauren executive Jane Nielsen to take the helm. Morningstar warns any new CEO faces a tall task restoring growth amid competitive pressure.

Crypto slump erases 2025 gains as Trump-inspired optimism fades

December 29, 2025, 8:23 PM EST. Crypto markets tumbled in late 2025, wiping out about $1 trillion in value despite a mid-year rally backed by Trump-era policy. Bitcoin hit an all-time high of about $126,000 on Oct. 6, but a 100% tariff pledge on China on Oct. 12 spurred a historic $19 billion in 24-hour liquidations. Ethereum fell about 40% in the following month, while Bitcoin hovered near $90,000 by year-end. Trump administration moves-an executive order advancing digital assets regulation and a planned strategic cryptocurrency reserve-initially buoyed sentiment, but macro forces and policy tightening outweighed the optimism. By December, Eric Trump's crypto venture saw roughly $1 billion wiped out, and the market's risk-on dynamics remained fragile amid volatility and outsized drawdowns.

Plug Power Stock: Signs of Stabilization Amid High Risks

December 29, 2025, 8:22 PM EST. Plug Power (PLUG) is not collapsing, but it remains far from a sustainable turnaround. After a near-99% drop from its split-adjusted high, the stock has rallied about 87% in 2024 as volatility fades. Key positives include a better-than-expected Q3 with revenue of $177 million and a loss per share of $0.12, and a near 53% sequential drop in operating cash burn to roughly $90 million. The GenEco electrolyzer segment posted 46% sequential revenue growth to $65 million, with management guiding ~$200 million in electrolyzer revenue in 2025 (a ~33% year-over-year gain). Yet investors must weigh project timing risks, a large $8 billion opportunity funnel still awaiting FID, and ongoing manufacturing challenges. With a liquidity boost not yet closed, the stock remains more stabilization than a confirmed turnaround.

Asia-Pacific markets drift lower as Taiwan drills and SoftBank-DigitalBridge deal weigh on mood

December 29, 2025, 8:21 PM EST. Asia-Pacific markets were mostly lower on the penultimate trading day of the year, with Australia's S&P/ASX 200 up about 0.2% while Japan's Nikkei 225 and Korea's Kospi slipped. Traders will be watching China's military exercises around Taiwan as Beijing announced new drills around the island. SoftBank tumbled over 2% after unveiling a $4 billion deal to acquire DigitalBridge, a move the firm says will bolster its AI-data-center strategy, while DigitalBridge jumped roughly 10% on the news. Elsewhere, Nvidia, Palantir, Meta and Oracle softened amid ongoing AI-stock rotations. Hong Kong's Hang Seng futures and regional gauges were muted ahead of the U.S. data queue. In the United States, futures were little changed; traders await home price data and the Fed minutes today.

Lululemon proxy fight: Chip Wilson seeks board shakeup and new CEO as Elliott stake grows

December 29, 2025, 8:20 PM EST. Lululemon founder Chip Wilson launched a proxy fight Monday, pushing for a board shakeup and a new CEO. Wilson nominated three candidates: Marc Maurer (ONON co-CEO), Laura Gentile (former ESPN CMO), and Eric Hirshberg (former Activision CEO). Wilson owns about 9.9 million shares (roughly 8.4%). The stock rose ~1% on the news after a year with about a 45% drop. Former CEO Calvin McDonald plans to step down on Jan. 31, 2026; interim co-CEOs will be Meghan Frank (CFO) and André Maestrini (Chief Commercial Officer). Chair Marti Morfitt becomes executive chair. Activist Elliott Investment Management took a $1 billion stake and is pressing for former Ralph Lauren executive Jane Nielsen to take the helm. Morningstar's David Swartz says the next CEO faces a tall order to restore 2018-2023 growth.

Indian Markets Slip as IT, Realty Drag; Vedanta, Timex, SEPC in Focus

December 29, 2025, 8:19 PM EST. Indian benchmarks closed lower as selling in IT, realty, pharma and auto pressed the indices into the red. The BSE Sensex fell about 345 points (-0.4%) and the NSE Nifty 50 shed 100 points (-0.4%). Tata Steel, Asian Paints and NTPC topped gainers, while Adani Ports, HCL Tech and Trent led losses. Mid and small caps also ended lower. In top buzzing stocks: Vedanta gained on winning a critical minerals block; Timex Group India faced a 2-day OFS discounting 22% from the last close; SEPC won a Rs 2.3 billion order from MOIL for the Chikla Mine. The market overview also notes sector-wide weakness outside banking and telecom, with power and realty under pressure. Watch Howard Marks AI insights for context.

Asia-Pacific markets set to open mostly lower as AI fears and Taiwan drills weigh on sentiment

December 29, 2025, 8:17 PM EST. Asia-Pacific stocks were muted ahead of year-end trading, with Japan and South Korea slipping after an earlier morning rally in Australia. Traders shrugged off domestic gains as AI concerns persist following big moves on Wall Street, where tech names fell and investors awaited key data on home prices and the Fed minutes. The market focus also turned to China's military exercises around Taiwan after Beijing announced new drills. In Tokyo, SoftBank slid more than 2% after unveiling a $4 billion deal to acquire DigitalBridge, part of its AI infrastructure push, while Nvidia, Palantir, Meta, and Oracle logged declines from the prior session. Futures suggested a cautious start as investors weigh the tech sector and macro cues.

Plug Power Stock: Dead or Ready for Revival? Early Signs of Stabilization and 2025 Electrolyzer Growth

December 29, 2025, 8:12 PM EST. Plug Power has not collapsed but remains far from a proven turnaround. After a near-99% slide, the stock has stabilized and is up ~87% YTD, yet faces elevated risk. In Q3, the company beat on revenue and narrowed operating cash burn, signaling improving execution and working capital management. The GenEco electrolyzer line posted 46% sequential growth, with management guiding about $200 million in electrolyzer revenue for 2025, up ~33% YoY. The company targets breakeven gross margin by late 2025, contingent on higher equipment sales, margin expansion, and lower hydrogen costs. Other risks include project timing and headwinds from pending monetization of electricity rights. Investors may want to wait for clearer quarterly progress before committing.

Asia-Pacific markets set to open mostly lower as AI fears persist and Taiwan drills loom

December 29, 2025, 8:11 PM EST. Asia-Pacific stocks were broadly softer in early trade, with Japan's Nikkei 225 and Topix down while Australia's ASX 200 edged higher. Traders eyed China's announced drills around Taiwan, renewing geopolitical risk concerns. SoftBank shares fell over 2% after it agreed to acquire DigitalBridge for about $4 billion to bolster its AI data-centre push; DigitalBridge jumped roughly 10% on the news. In Korea, the Kospi and Kosdaq edged lower. Hong Kong Hang Seng futures signaled a softer session ahead. U.S. futures were little changed after overnight losses, with attention on home price data and the Fed minutes later today as AI-related tech moves influence sentiment.

Indian Stocks End Lower as Sensex, Nifty Slip; Vedanta, Timex Group in Focus; SEPC Wins MOIL Order

December 29, 2025, 8:08 PM EST. Indian indices closed in the red as heavy selling in IT, realty, pharma and auto weighed on the market. The BSE Sensex fell 345 points to close lower by 0.4%, while the NSE Nifty ended 100 points lower (down 0.4%). Among the gainers were Tata Steel, Asian Paints, and NTPC, with Adani Ports, HCL Tech, and Trent among the top laggards. The broader market mirrored the weakness, with the BSE MidCap and SmallCap indices slipping around 0.4-0.5%. A note from Equitymaster's Raul Shah highlighted AI bubble dynamics as part of the broader tech cycle. In buzz, Vedanta drew focus after winning a critical mineral block; Timex Group India tumbled on news of a promoter OFS; and SEPC secured a MOIL order worth about ₹2.3 billion, boosting mining infra visibility.

Indian Shares End Lower as IT, Realty, Pharma Drag; Vedanta, Timex, SEPC Among Buzzing Stocks

December 29, 2025, 8:05 PM EST. Indian benchmarks closed in the red as selling intensified in the IT, realty, pharma and auto spaces, with the BSE Sensex sliding 345 points and the Nifty 50 down about 0.4%. The session saw midcap and smallcap indices also languish, while heavyweights like Tata Steel, Asian Paints, and NTPC were among the top gainers, and Adani Ports, HCL Tech, and Trent among the day's laggards. In focus were Vedanta after winning a government auction for a critical mineral block, and Timex Group India amid an OFS offer. SEPC won a Rs 1.6-2.3 billion order from MOIL for the Chikla Mine project, signaling a pickup in mining infrastructure orders. Analysts comment on AI-driven themes and sector rotations shaping flows ahead of fresh cues.

Singapore Post: 59% owned by individual investors; no single dominant owner

December 29, 2025, 8:03 PM EST. Singapore Post Limited (SGX:S08) shows strong individual investor control at about 59%, suggesting the public could have substantial influence on governance and strategy. The top 25 shareholders hold around 41%, while institutions own about 13% and public companies account for roughly 27%. The largest holder is Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel) at ~22%, with the second and third at ~4.6% and 2.6%. Overall, there is no single dominant owner, implying a widespread ownership base and potential for dispersed decision-making. Analysts note light coverage but highlight the opportunity for more research and the importance of monitoring earnings, insider activity, and the risk of a crowded trade among institutions.

Singapore Post (SGX:S08) Ownership Breakdown: 59% by Individual Investors, 27% by Public Companies

December 29, 2025, 8:02 PM EST. Singapore Post Limited (SGX:S08) shows a notable split in ownership: individual investors control 59%, suggesting the public has substantial sway over management and governance. Public companies own 27%, and institutions account for about 13%, with Singapore Telecommunications Limited listed as the largest shareholder at 22%. The remaining shares are held by other institutions and retail holders, and the top 25 shareholders together control less than half, indicating a broadly distributed share base rather than a single dominant holder. The report notes limited analyst coverage and potential for upside if more coverage and growth materialize. Investors should watch ownership dynamics and the risk of a 'crowded trade' when multiple institutions align, though ownership patterns imply diversified risk.

Public investors hold majority stake in Singapore Post (SGX:S08) amid broad ownership; largest holder 22%

December 29, 2025, 8:01 PM EST. Singapore Post Limited (SGX:S08) shows a notably dispersed ownership structure. The article states that individual investors own 59% of the company, public companies 27%, and institutions 13%. The top 25 shareholders hold about 41% of shares, while the single largest holder is Singapore Telecommunications Limited with roughly 22%. This distribution suggests the public could have meaningful influence over governance and strategy, though a lack of consistent growth history warrants caution about a potential crowded trade among professional buyers. The stock has limited analyst coverage, which means investors should rely on earnings trends, management commentary, and insider dynamics when assessing upside or risk. In short, ownership is widespread with no obvious control by a single party, reinforcing the need for ongoing due diligence.

Dollar Little Changed as Long Liquidation Pressures Drive Gold and Silver Lower

December 29, 2025, 8:00 PM EST. The dollar was barely moved, easing about 0.03%, as long liquidation pressures weighed on precious metals. The data mix left traders pricing in slim odds for a January rate cut, with a 19% chance of -25 bp at the FOMC meeting. The Dallas Fed outlook slipped into negative territory, while pending home sales surprised to the upside, enabling only a modest dollar lift earlier. Across major FX, the EUR/USD edged higher as the euro regained footing against a softer dollar, and the yen strengthened on BoJ signals of remaining ultra-low rates. COMEX gold and silver slid sharply, with gold near a 1.5-week low and silver down more than 8% intraday on liquidation pressure. Traders await updates on policy and liquidity moves.

Cyient Limited (NSE:CYIENT) Fundamentals: 10% ROE and Mixed Growth vs. Industry

December 29, 2025, 7:59 PM EST. Cyient (NSE:CYIENT) faces a mixed fundamental picture. The stock dropped about 4.9% in the week, but the numbers show a ROE of 10% (₹6.1b net profit to ₹60b equity in the trailing twelve months to September 2025). That compares unfavorably with the industry average ROE of ~15%. Despite 5-year net income growth of 13%, Cyient's growth lags the sector's ~26%, suggesting earnings gains may rely on retained earnings or other drivers. The company's median payout ratio of about 49% points to substantial retained earnings, though the impact on future growth isn't clear from the excerpt. Investors should weigh whether the current price already reflects these near-term dynamics.

Cyient Limited's Fundamentals Signal Value Despite a Modest ROE

December 29, 2025, 7:58 PM EST. Cyient (NSE: CYIENT) faces a mixed fundamental picture after a ~4.9% weekly drop. The key read is ROE at about 10% on trailing twelve months to Sep 2025, below the 15% industry average, which tempers growth expectations. Yet Cyient posted earnings growth of around 13% over five years, with some of that momentum supported by strong retained earnings (payout ratio around 49% on a three-year median). The comparison against peers suggests the growth pace may be challenged unless higher returns or retention translate into stronger expansion. Investors should weigh whether the current price already reflects future earnings growth and how Cyient's capital allocation (retention vs. payout) might influence the stock's trajectory versus the broader sector's ~26% five-year growth. Overall, fundamentals look reasonable, but valuation and ROE gaps merit close scrutiny.

Cyient Limited: Fundamentals Look Solid Despite Near-Term Stock Selloff

December 29, 2025, 7:57 PM EST. Cyient (NSE: CYIENT) faces a rough week with a ~4.9% drop, but its fundamentals look solid. Trailing twelve-month ROE is 10% (₹6.1b profit on ₹60b equity), signaling reasonable profitability on equity. Yet this is below the industry average ROE of 15%, tempering near-term upside. Net income has grown about 13% over five years, but Cyient's earnings growth trails the industry pace of ~26% in the same period, suggesting growth potential depends on retention or efficiency gains. The company shows a three-year median payout ratio of ~49%, implying meaningful earnings retention for reinvestment. Investors should judge whether the price already reflects expected earnings growth or if upside comes from retention, efficiency, or multiple expansion.

Cotton Starts Monday Higher as Futures Edge Up; Oil Declines, Dollar Rises

December 29, 2025, 7:56 PM EST. Cotton prices in Monday trading edged higher, with futures up 10 to 18 points as March contracts posted a 74-point gain last week. Friday closed 25 to 40 points higher. Crude oil futures fell $1.45 to $56.90, while the U.S. dollar index rose to 97.735. The 12/24 online auction from The Seam sold 6,914 bales at an average of 61.96 cents/lb. The Cotlook A Index gained 50 points to 74.00 cents. ICE-certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,600 bales. The Adjusted World Price remained at 49.99 cents/lb after a holiday reporting gap. With cross-asset moves and weekly auction data in focus, traders await further fundamentals from demand signals and supply data.

Cotton Futures Rally as The Seam Auction and Cotlook A Index Support Prices

December 29, 2025, 7:55 PM EST. Cotton prices extended gains Friday as futures closed 25-40 points higher, with the front contract up 74 points for the week. The latest action came as crude oil slipped about $1.45 to $56.90 and the US dollar index moved up to 97.735. The 12/24 online auction from The Seam sold 6,914 bales at an average of 61.96 cents/lb. The Cotlook A Index rose 50 points to 74.00 cents. ICE certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,600 bales, and the Adjusted World Price stayed at 49.99 cents/lb after a holiday closure. The market continues to show nearby strength, with ongoing quotes for Mar, May and Jul contracts.

Cotton Futures Rally as Prices Edge Higher; Oil Drops, Dollar Rises

December 29, 2025, 7:54 PM EST. Cotton futures closed Friday with gains across the board, with nearby contracts up 25 to 40 points and the March contract up 74 points last week. Overall, cotton prices rose 10 to 18 points on the session, supporting a constructive tone heading into Monday trade. In the broader complex, crude oil futures fell about $1.45 to $56.90, while the U.S. dollar index rose to 97.735. The market signal included the 12/24 online auction from The Seam selling 6,914 bales at 61.96 cents/lb, and the Cotlook A Index up 50 points to 74.00 cents. ICE certified stocks held steady at 11,600 bales. The Adjusted World Price remained at 49.99 cents after last week's holiday closure. The author reported no positions in the securities mentioned.

Crude Oil Rallies as Ukraine Talks Stall and Chinese Demand Boosts Prices

December 29, 2025, 7:53 PM EST. Crude futures climbed Friday as weekend talks to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict produced no breakthrough, leaving traders focused on supply risks and demand strength. February WTI (CLG26) rose about 2.5%, with February RBOB gasoline (RBG26) up nearly 2%. Support also came from expectations of firmer Chinese energy demand after Beijing pledged growth support, with Kpler data showing imports rising to a record 12.2 million bpd. The EIA delayed its weekly inventory snapshot, signaling market watchfulness. Losses in supply were offset by sanctions on Russian and Venezuelan shipments and a US-led action against ISIS-linked targets in Nigeria, helping cap idle supply. OPEC+ signaled a pause in production increases into Q1 2026, amid a rising global surplus backdrop.

Crude Oil Rallies as Ukraine War Talks Stall; Chinese Demand Supports Prices

December 29, 2025, 7:52 PM EST. Crude oil futures extended gains after weekend talks to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict yielded no breakthrough, with February WTI (CLG26) and RBOB gasoline (RBG26) firming amid hopes of stronger Chinese energy demand. The EIA delayed its weekly inventory release, keeping traders vigilant ahead of data on December 19. China's crude imports are seen rising 10% m/m to a record 12.2 million bpd as it rebuilds inventories, underpinning oil demand. The market also cited sanctions on Russian oil and the US-led blockade of sanctioned tankers hitching to Venezuela, plus ongoing security actions in Nigeria. Geopolitics aside, OPEC+ signaled a pause to production hikes in Q1 2026, while the IEA warns of a looming global surplus, complicating the supply outlook but leaving near-term price support intact.

Oil climbs as Ukraine talks stall and Chinese demand cements gains

December 29, 2025, 7:51 PM EST. Crude oil prices rose after weekend talks to end the Ukraine-Russia war yielded no breakthrough and WTI led gains, with February futures up about 2.5% and RBOB higher. Traders cited Chinese energy demand optimism after Beijing pledged growth support and data showing imports at a record pace (roughly 12.2 million bpd). The EIA delayed its weekly inventory release amid holiday shifts. Supply concerns persisted from sanctions-related pressure and regional tensions: strikes in Nigeria, the Vessel blockade on sanctioned barrels, and ongoing disruption to Russian exports. OPEC+ reiteration to pause Q1-2026 hikes reinforced expectations of a global oil surplus in 2026 while supply discipline remains a market driver.

Hollywood Stocks in 2025: Winners, Losers and Surprises

December 29, 2025, 7:50 PM EST. 2025 proved volatile for Hollywood stocks as mega-deals and AI fears moved markets. The S&P 500 rose 17.5%, but media names delivered a mixed picture. Among outperformance: Fox Corp. (topping ~47.3% YTD to a 52-week high), Imax, Roku, and Spotify. Netflix rose 5.7% on the Warner Bros. deal chatter, while Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) exploded ~172% thanks to deal momentum. Paramount Skydance climbed ~29%, and Disney finished near flat, up about 2.25%. By contrast, Comcast slipped ~20% ahead of its Versant spin, and Sony faced a cooler year. Analysts, including Morgan Stanley's Benjamin Swinburne, see AI as the dominant theme for 2026 alongside streaming consolidation and rising advertising and premium-entertainment demand, which could lift margins but keep earnings uncertainty elevated.

Dollar Little Changed, Precious Metals Plunge on Long Liquidation Pressures

December 29, 2025, 7:47 PM EST. The dollar index barely moved, down about -0.03%, after the Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook worsened. A firmer pending home sales report briefly supported the greenback, but traders still eye the FOMC path, with odds of a near-term cut pricing in. Markets expect gradual easing in 2026 as the Fed adds liquidity via T-bill purchases. In metals, gold and silver plunged on long liquidation pressures, with COMEX gold near a 1.5-week low and March silver down over 8%. The euro and yen drifted higher as yields recede and policy bets diverge across the dollar bloc.

Dollar Little Changed but Precious Metals Plunge on Long Liquidation Pressures

December 29, 2025, 7:46 PM EST. Activity in FX and metals shows a muted risk mood as the dollar barely slips and safe-haven demand wanes. The DXY edged -0.03% while weaker US data-the Dec Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook and stronger-than-expected pending home sales-mixed with odds of a smaller or delayed rate path, keeping markets cautious ahead of the January FOMC meeting. Traders price roughly a 19% chance of a -25 bp cut at the end of January, with 2026 rate trajectory still in play as the Fed signals liquidity support. EUR/USD edged higher on dollar softness, while USD/JPY slipped as BOJ signals and lower T-note yields supported the yen. Gold and silver tumbled, with COMEX gold off about -4.5% and silver down around -8.5% as liquidity pressures mount.

Cotton Holds Slight Gains as Front-Month Futures Edge Higher on Monday

December 29, 2025, 7:45 PM EST. Cotton futures managed slight gains on Monday, with front-month contracts up about 5-10 points. Oil markets were higher, with crude up $1.35 to $58.09/bbl, while the U.S. dollar firmed to 97.850. The Seam's online auction on Dec. 26 sold 9,181 bales at an average of 60.31 cents/lb. The Cotlook A Index rose 50 points to 74.00 cents, and ICE-certified stocks stayed steady at 11,600 bales. The Adjusted World Price increased to 50.02 cents/lb after a holiday delay (up 3 points week-on-week). The LDP rate is now 1.98 cents. Markets continue to track inter-market signals and inventory data as cotton trends cautiously higher.

Cotton Holds Slight Gains as Front-Month Futures Edge Higher; Crude, Dollar Rally

December 29, 2025, 7:44 PM EST. Market overview: Cotton futures are showing 5 to 10 point gains across the front months on Monday. Crude oil futures rise by about $1.35 to $58.09 and the U.S. dollar index climbs to around 97.85. The December 26 online auction from The Seam sold 9,181 bales at an average 60.31 cents/lb. The Cotlook A Index adds 50 points to 74.00 cents. ICE certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,600 bales. The Adjusted World Price ticked up to 50.02 cents/lb, up 3 points from the prior week. The LDP rate is now 1.98 cents.

Cotton Holds Slight Gains as Front-Month Futures Edge Higher on Monday

December 29, 2025, 7:43 PM EST. Cotton futures are showing slight 5 to 10 point gains across the front months on Monday. Crude oil futures are up $1.35 to $58.09, while the US dollar index climbs to 97.850. The December 26 online auction from The Seam sold 9,181 bales at an average of 60.31 cents per pound. The Cotlook A Index rose 50 points to 74.00 cents. ICE certified cotton stocks were steady at 11,600 bales. The Adjusted World Price was updated to 50.02 cents per pound, up 3 points from the week prior. The LDP rate sits at 1.98 cents.

UiPath Edges Higher on Dec. 29 as Morgan Stanley Lifts Target to $19

December 29, 2025, 7:42 PM EST. UiPath (PATH) edged higher after Morgan Stanley boosted its price target to $19, up from $15, as investors bet on AI-driven automation. The stock closed near $16.85 on Monday with solid volume-about 31.3 million shares traded, well above its three-month average. The reaction comes as UiPath continues expanding its end-to-end automation platform and forges partnerships with OpenAI, Snowflake, and Nvidia, fueling optimism that profitability milestones can translate into sustainable growth. Markets were mixed, with the S&P 500 down and the Nasdaq pressured, while UiPath's peers saw varied moves. UiPath is set to join the S&P MidCap 400 on Jan. 2, 2026. Morgan Stanley maintained an Equal Weight rating, reinforcing a balanced view of upside risk versus fundamentals.

UiPath Stock Rises as Morgan Stanley Lifts Price Target to $19 (Dec 29, 2025)

December 29, 2025, 7:41 PM EST. UiPath stock edged higher after Morgan Stanley boosted its price target to $19, reinforcing upbeat sentiment around AI-enabled automation. UiPath closed near $16.85, up a touch, with volume far above the three-month average as traders digest the recent profitability milestone. The move comes as broad indexes drift, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq slipping modestly, but within software infrastructure peers showing mixed signals. Investors are focusing on UiPath's ability to translate its AI-driven automation strategy into durable growth, aided by partnerships with OpenAI, Snowflake, and Nvidia. The company is set to join the S&P MidCap 400 in early January 2026. Morgan Stanley's upgrade from $15 to $19 marks a roughly 12.8% upside from the prior price.

UiPath Stock Rises After Morgan Stanley Raises Target to $19

December 29, 2025, 7:40 PM EST. UiPath stock rose modestly after Morgan Stanley boosted its price target to $19 from $15. The shares traded around $16.82 with volume above the three-month average, underscoring renewed investor interest in the automation platform. UiPath, the end-to-end robotic process automation provider, has benefited from accelerating AI-driven automation and recently highlighted profitability milestones. The firm has also struck partnerships with OpenAI, Snowflake, and Nvidia as it pushes deeper into AI-assisted workflows. UiPath is slated to join the S&P MidCap 400 on Jan. 2, 2026. Markets were mixed, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq modestly lower. The stock has fallen about 75% since its 2021 IPO, and investors weigh a recovery against valuation and execution risks.

Hollywood Stocks in 2025: Winners, Losers and AI-Driven Shifts

December 29, 2025, 7:39 PM EST. 2025 capped a mixed run for media and entertainment stocks as a broader S&P 500 rise of 17.5% kept pace with consolidation and AI-driven strategy shifts. The front-runner list featured Fox Corp., Walt Disney, Imax, Roku and Spotify delivering outsized gains, while Netflix posted a modest 5.7% rise amid investors weighing Warner Bros. Discovery's bigger ambitions. By year-end, WBD had surged about 172% on deal chatter and then an actual deal, signaling the era of mega-mergers. Other standouts included Paramount Skydance (up roughly 29%), with Disney near flat (+2.25%). In contrast, Comcast traded about 20% lower as Versant separates, and Sony faced mixed signals. Analysts say the key themes remain AI, streaming market repair through consolidation, and rising advertising and premium entertainment demand.

Hollywood Stocks in 2025: Winners, Losers and Surprises

December 29, 2025, 7:36 PM EST. 2025 shaping up as a tale of mixed performance for Hollywood names. The market overall rose, but media and entertainment stocks delivered a divergent path as megadeals fueled risk and uncertainty. Generative AI remains the dominant theme, promising product innovation and margin expansion while creating genuine uncertainty about audience behavior and IP monetization. Netflix rose modestly amid a Warner Bros. deal backdrop; WBD jumped about 172% on deal chatter and the actual agreement. Other standout performers included Fox Corp. (+~47%), Imax, Roku, and Spotify; Disney posted only a modest gain and Comcast slipped as it divested Versant. The outlook hinges on continued streaming repair, industry consolidation, and rising advertising and premium entertainment demand.

Stocks Slip as Megacap Tech Weakness Drives Market Lows; Oil Rises and Yields Dip Ahead of FOMC Minutes

December 29, 2025, 7:35 PM EST. Prices mixed as major indices slip on megacap tech weakness. The S&P 500 falls 0.24%, the Dow down 0.09%, and the Nasdaq 100 down 0.24% as March E-mini futures retreat. Weakness in megacap tech stocks leads the slide, while metals retreat and mining names pull back. A drop in yields to about 4.10% provides some ballast for stocks, even as oil climbs more than 2% and supports energy shares. Global risk sentiment is mixed amid geopolitical tensions and tentative progress on Ukraine peace talks; traders await the FOMC minutes, pending home sales, and the Chicago PMI. The odds of a 25 bp rate cut at the next meeting sit near 19%. Treasuries remain in demand, reflecting cautious risk-off.

Stocks Slip as Megacap Tech Weakness Drags Major Indices Lower

December 29, 2025, 7:34 PM EST. Stocks slipped as megacap technology weakness led declines in the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq 100. March futures for the S&P and Nasdaq also eased. A pullback in metals and weakness in miners weighed on the complex, even as softer 10-year yields provided some support. Crude oil rose over 2%, underpinning energy names amid geopolitics and China's fiscal pledge. Traders eye late-week U.S. data, including pending home sales and the Chicago PMI, plus the FOMC minutes for policy clues. The odds of a -25 bp rate cut at the next meeting sit near 19%. Overseas markets were mixed, with Europe higher, Japan softer, and China steady.

Stocks Slip on Megacap Tech Weakness as Markets Digest Data

December 29, 2025, 7:33 PM EST. Stocks slipped as megacap technology weakness led the broader market lower, with the S&P 500 (-0.24%), Dow (-0.09%), and Nasdaq-100 (-0.24%) retreating as March futures pointed lower. Metals fell while crude oil rose over 2%, supporting energy names. The 10-year T-note yield dipped to about 4.10%, boosting bond demand. Market attention turns to US data: pending home sales, Chicago PMI, and the FOMC minutes, with odds around 19% for a -25 bp rate cut at the January meeting. Overseas markets were mixed; Shanghai edged higher, while Nikkei declined. Seasonal factors argue for stocks in late December, as geopolitical risk supports oil and some risk assets despite broad weakness.

Hogs Higher at Monday's Midday as Lean Futures Edge Up

December 29, 2025, 7:32 PM EST.Lean hog futures show modest gains on Monday, with prices up about 5 to 17 cents. The CME Lean Hog Index rose 13 cents to $83.84 as of December 24. USDA's national base hog price wasn't reported in Monday's morning update. The pork carcass cutout value slipped $2 to $95.71 per cwt, while the loin and ham cutouts rose and the belly fell by $13.93. USDA estimated federally inspected hog slaughter for last week at 1.978 million head, down from both the prior week and the year-ago period. Traders will watch how the weekly slaughter pace and demand cues influence the cash and futures complex today.

Hogs Edge Higher at Monday's Midday Session as Futures Tick Up

December 29, 2025, 7:31 PM EST.Lean hog futures are modestly higher on Monday as traders weigh demand and supply. The CME Lean Hog Index rose 13 cents to $83.84 on Dec 24, while USDA's pork carcass cutout value edged down $2 to $95.71 per cwt. The loin and ham were higher, but belly prices dropped $13.93. USDA estimated federally inspected hog slaughter for last week at 1.978 million head, well below the prior week and down 85,628 from the same week last year. Nearby and deferred hog futures are trading up, with Feb at 84.575, Apr at 89.625, and May at 93.600.

Hogs Edge Higher at Monday Midday as Index Rises and Cutout Dips

December 29, 2025, 7:30 PM EST. Lean hog futures show modest gains of 5 to 17 cents on Monday. The CME Lean Hog Index rose 13 cents to $83.84 as of December 24. USDA's national base hog price wasn't reported this morning. The USDA pork carcass cutout value slipped $2 to $95.71 per cwt, with the loin and ham higher, while the belly dropped $13.93. USDA estimated last week's federally inspected hog slaughter at 1.978 million head, below the prior week and 85,628 head shy of the year-ago pace. In the futures strip, Feb 26 Hogs at $84.575, Apr 26 at $89.625, and May 26 at $93.600, all higher.

Wheat Mixed at Monday's Midday: Winter Down, Spring Up; USDA Export Shipments Decline Week Ending Dec 25

December 29, 2025, 7:29 PM EST. The wheat complex offered a mixed session: winter wheat was lower, while spring wheat logged higher gains. Chicago SRW futures slipped about 3 to 4 cents, and KC HRW futures fell 4 to 5 cents at midday, with MPLS spring wheat firming 1 to 2 cents. USDA data show wheat export shipments at 302,096 MT (11.1 mbu) for the week ending Dec 25, down 52.5% from the prior week and 11.1% below the same week in 2024. Bangladesh was the top destination, 115,946 MT, followed by Thailand (68,589 MT) and the Dominican Republic (44,311 MT). For the marketing year 2025/26, exports reached 15.06 MMT (553.5 mbu) since June 1, about 22% higher than the same period last year.

Wheat Mixed at Monday Midday as Winter Slumps and Spring Rises

December 29, 2025, 7:28 PM EST. Markets mixed as the wheat complex sees winter SRW lower and spring wheat firmer. Chicago SRW futures are down 3-4 cents, KC HRW down 4-5 cents, while MPLS spring wheat edges up 1-2 cents at midday. USDA reported export shipments of 302,096 MT (11.1 mbu) for the week ending December 25, down 52.47% from the prior week and 11.12% below the same week last year. Bangladesh remains the top destination with 115,946 MT; 68,589 MT to Thailand and 44,311 MT to the Dominican Republic. Marketing year exports for 2025/26 stand at 15.06 MMT (553.5 mbu) since June 1, up 22.02% versus a year ago. The forecast calls for little precip across the Plains next week with light, spotty totals for SRW country after weekend events.

Wheat Mixed as Winter Woes, Spring Strength Lead Monday Midday

December 29, 2025, 7:27 PM EST. Markets: Wheat mixed Monday as winter wheat retreats and spring wheat nudges higher. Chicago SRW futures were down 3-4 cents at midday; KC HRW off 4-5 cents; MPLS spring wheat up 1-2 cents. The USDA tallied weekly export shipments at 302,096 MT (11.1 mbu) for the week ending December 25, down 52.47% from the prior week and 11.12% below the year-ago frame. Bangladesh topped buyers with 115,946 MT, followed by Thailand (68,589 MT) and the Dominican Republic. For the 2025/26 marketing year, exports total 15.06 MMT (553.5 mbu) since June 1, ~22% larger vs. last year. A dry forecast for the Plains suggests limited next-week precip; futures quotes show a modestly softer tone across CBOT, KCBT, and MIAX.

India Stock Market 2026: Capex-led Growth, Domestic Demand, and Financials Lead

December 29, 2025, 7:26 PM EST. Domestic demand and capex will anchor India's market trajectory in 2026, with pockets in capital goods, select industrials and engineering-led businesses offering clearer visibility thanks to multi-year order books and public capex. Financials will remain a core ballast, though leadership may become more differentiated as investors prize balance sheet quality and underwriting discipline over mere loan growth. The theme points to a rotation toward companies tied to domestic investment and manufacturing, with earnings stability supported by public investment and disciplined capital allocation.

India stock market 2026 outlook: domestic investment, manufacturing and quality-led leadership

December 29, 2025, 7:25 PM EST. India's 2026 trajectory looks anchored in domestic investment and manufacturing. Within that, sectors such as capital goods, select industrial and engineering-led businesses offer visibility, supported by multi-year order books and public capex. While financials remain the core of most portfolios, leadership is likely to become more differentiated as investors prize balance sheet quality and underwriting discipline over mere loan growth. In a climate of policy push and capex cycles, stocks tied to domestic demand could outperform, albeit with a higher emphasis on earnings quality and capital efficiency. The path will depend on the pace of public investment and the ability of corporates to translate orders into margins.

Indian Stock Market 2026 Outlook: Sectors To Watch And Key Drivers

December 29, 2025, 7:24 PM EST. 2026 could see the Indian stock market favor sectors tied to domestic investment and manufacturing, with capital goods, select industrials, and engineering-led businesses offering visibility on multi-year order books amid ongoing public capex. While financials remain core to portfolios, leadership is likely to become more differentiated as investors prize balance sheet quality and underwriting discipline over mere loan growth. The near-term backdrop points to earnings resilience in sectors linked to domestic capex, even as cyclicals rotate. Investors should watch policy execution that sustains capex and the ability of financials to manage risk while supporting growth.

Euronext N.V. Patience Tested as Volumes Shrink and Strategy Takes Center Stage

December 29, 2025, 7:07 PM EST. Euronext N.V. trades in a narrow band as volumes slump across Europe, forcing investors to weigh steady cash flows against macro headwinds. The group sits in the mid-€80s, with flat value over the quarter and a 52-week range from the low-€70s to the low-€90s. The move reads as consolidation rather than a breakout, as traders await evidence of earnings growth in an environment of thinner volumes and tighter regulation. Sentiment is neutral to mildly bullish, with bad news largely priced in but investors seeking clarity on growth. Over the past year, returns are modest, supported by a reliable dividend and a view of Euronext as an infrastructure/data play rather than a high-growth stock.

Coca-Cola 2026 Growth Playbook: Can Organic Momentum Stay Resilient Amid Competition?

December 29, 2025, 6:56 PM EST. Coca-Cola KO enters Q4 2025 with solid organic growth, powered by steady volume gains, price/mix discipline and disciplined cost management. The company extended its value-share lead for the 18th straight quarter, reinforcing its all-weather strategy. Looking to 2026, management points to pricing intensity moderating, a shift toward affordability and volume, and selective premiumization where demand supports it. Productivity gains across supply chain and marketing are expected to support margins as investments in brands and innovation continue. A diversified footprint remains a key strength, with Asia Pacific softening but Latin America and Africa offering long-term growth. The big question: can peers PepsiCo and Keurig Dr Pepper match Coca-Cola's organic growth resilience amid currency volatility and changing consumer behavior?

Micron Stock Jumps 3% as DRAM Prices Rise; AI Demand and HBM Drive MU Move

December 29, 2025, 6:55 PM EST. MU shares rose 3.4% to $294.40 after closing; intraday range $278.51-$294.45 on about 25.6 million shares. A rise in DRAM spot prices for DDR5 16G and DDR4 16Gb fed the move. The company also announced a quarterly dividend of $0.115 per share payable Jan. 14, with the record date Dec. 29. In memory, the market remains pricing-driven; tight supply and AI-related demand are pushing HBM and higher-end memory volumes. DRAMeXchange data showed gains in spot prices for DDR5 16G (+~1.4%) and DDR4 16Gb (+~0.9%), with DDR4 8Gb up ~0.5%. Analysts say execution around expanding high-margin memory while limiting PC/phone exposure is key. The near term hinges on whether spot gains translate into contract pricing.

Kogan.com Updates Market on On-Market Share Buy-Back Progress

December 29, 2025, 6:52 PM EST. Kogan.com (ASX: KGN) has updated the market on its on-market share buy-back progress. As of 29 December 2025, KGN reports repurchasing 10,437,502 shares prior to the previous trading day, plus 57,883 shares bought back on the latest session, signaling ongoing execution of its capital management strategy and potential support for its share price and EPS. The latest analyst view remains Hold with a A$3.50 price target. Key stats: YTD price performance of -41.89%, average trading volume of 468,967, and a Technical Sentiment: Sell. Market cap sits at A$344.8M. For more, see TipRanks' overview and related disclosures. Kogan.com is an ASX-listed online retailer focusing on a digital-first model across Australia.

Wheaton Precious Metals Corp (WPM) Stock Price – Live Quotes, Charts & Insight

December 29, 2025, 6:51 PM EST. Wheaton Precious Metals Corp (WPM) is down today, with a -7.22 move (-5.81%) shown on a 1D candlestick chart and other timeframes (5D, 1M, etc.). The piece notes a 'Bullish Fuel' indicator flagging major names and invites readers to Discover More. Analyst coverage is missing: Average Price Target shows $0 based on 0 ratings in the last 3 months. Earnings data are not available in this snapshot. For traders, the combination of live quotes, price action, and sparse analyst coverage suggests waiting for more updates before acting on WPM.

Nu Holdings NU: Growth Momentum, Margin Discipline, and Valuation Ahead of February Earnings

December 29, 2025, 6:46 PM EST. Nu Holdings has outperformed the S&P 500 over the past year and is one of Latin America's fastest-growing fintechs. Its NuBank direct bank dominates Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia, and expanding into lending, e-commerce, and crypto has driven customer growth from 53.9 million to 127 million (2021-Q3 2025). ARPAC jumped from $4.50 to $13.40 while the average monthly cost to serve stayed about $0.90, signaling margin discipline as the company cross-sells. Revenue growth soared at an 89% CAGR through 2024; GAAP profitability emerged in 2023 and 2024 EPS nearly doubled. In 2025, YoY customer growth slowed to 16%, but ARPAC rose and revenue growth stabilized, with acceleration in Q3. The stock appears reasonably valued against its growth potential, but risks include currency headwinds, macro volatility, and regulatory shifts ahead of February earnings.

ASX set to slip as precious metals sell-off roils markets

December 29, 2025, 6:45 PM EST. Australian shares are seen slipping as a spike in volatility roils the precious metals complex. In thin year-end trading, silver, gold and platinum gave back gains after a rally that pushed metals to session highs. ASX futures fluctuated around break-even as U.S. markets traded, with the S&P 500 down about 0.4% at the close in New York. The pullback in metals is weighing risk sentiment and could weigh on domestic equities despite a broader appetite for assets in late December. Analyst commentary by Tim Moore notes cross-asset ripples from a metal retreat, underscoring a cautious tone for the Australian market until fresh catalysts emerge.

Circle CRCL slips as prediction-market growth outlook collides with year-end trading

December 29, 2025, 6:44 PM EST. Circle Inc. CRCL stock slips about 0.8% to around $80 in afternoon trade as investors weigh prediction-market growth and the path of interest rates. A Clear Street note says prediction markets could be a long-term tailwind for Circle and other crypto infra players, with an opportunity near $14 billion by 2030 and roughly $1.2 trillion in annual trading volume. The stock has traded near the $80 level with around 5.2 million shares volume by mid-afternoon. Circle, issuer of USDC and EURC, remains focused on stablecoins amid regulatory scrutiny and shifting crypto demand toward real-world use cases. Investors await the next earnings window, projected for February 2026, while watching whether shares hold above the round-number level through year-end positioning.

ASX Preview: Stocks Set to Rise as Oil Surges; BlueScope Wins AU$76m NSW Land Contract

December 29, 2025, 6:43 PM EST. Australian shares are poised to rise after oil prices jumped more than $1, while precious metals slipped as traders booked profits in thin holiday trading. International indices were softer, with the Nasdaq and the Dow both down about 0.5% and the S&P 500 down 0.4%. On the local data/front, BlueScope Steel (ASX: BSL) won a AU$76 million contract for sale of land in West Dapto, New South Wales. Also, Origin Energy (ASX: ORG) is investing $140 million in Kraken Technologies' stake-raising, securing 19.6% direct stake as Kraken plans to separate from Octopus Energy by mid-2026. The ASX closed Monday down 0.4% at 8,725.70, suggesting a cautious tone entering Tuesday trading.

Dollar Rises on Year-End Liquidation as Gold and Silver Slump

December 29, 2025, 6:42 PM EST. The dollar edged up, helped by some stock weakness and a stronger-than-expected Nov pending home sales reading, while the Dallas Fed outlook for manufacturing unexpectedly deteriorated and pressured other assets. Markets price in limited near-term rate moves, with few expecting a FOMC cut at the upcoming meeting and bets for a longer, more gradual easing path into 2026. The Fed's liquidity measures and chatter over a dovish chair candidate also weighed on the greenback. In the euro area, the EUR/USD eased as talks over the Russia-Ukraine conflict stalled; the ECB is seen holding rates with rate hikes priced out. The BOJ outlook and yen strength capped USD gains. On the precious metals front, gold and silver collapsed, with February gold down 4.59% and March silver down 8.73%, hitting multi-week lows amid liquidation.

Dollar Rises, Gold and Silver Slump on Year-End Liquidation Amid Fed Outlook

December 29, 2025, 6:40 PM EST. On Monday the dollar edged higher as stock weakness and a stronger-than-expected Nov pending home sales report supported liquidity demand, though gains faded after the Dallas Fed outlook slid to -10.9. Markets priced in a slim chance of a near-term Fed move, with bets for about -50 bp of easing in 2026 and wider rate differentials with the BOJ and ECB. The EUR/USD faced pressure as talks on ending the Russia-Ukraine war stalled and German bund yields fell. The USD/JPY declined as the BOJ signaled only modest tightening ahead. In commodities, gold and silver sank on year-end liquidation, with Feb COMEX gold down about 4.6% and March silver down around 8.7%.

Dollar Gains as Year-End Liquidation Presses Gold and Silver; Fed and BoJ Outlook in Focus

December 29, 2025, 6:38 PM EST. The dollar edged higher on Monday as stock weakness boosted liquidity demand and November pending home sales beat expectations. A surprise drop in the Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook kept Fed rate-cut bets in play. The EUR/USD slide reflected stalled talks on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and weaker German yields, while USD/JPY declined as BOJ policy expectations shifted. In commodities, gold slid about 4.6% and silver fell roughly 8.7% on year-end liquidation. Traders weigh central-bank paths into 2026, with Fed easing bets, the ECB keeping policy steady, and the BOJ likely to stay responsive to domestic inflation dynamics.

Dollar Gains and Precious Metals Sink on Year-End Liquidation

December 29, 2025, 6:37 PM EST. On Monday the dollar edged higher as stock weakness boosted liquidity demand for the greenback, aided by a stronger-than-expected US pending home sales print. The Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook unexpectedly fell to -10.9, keeping momentum in flux for the dollar. The EUR/USD slid as no breakthrough in weekend talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war emerged and German bund yields dipped, pressuring the euro's rate differentials. The USD/JPY slipped as the BOJ signaled continued accommodation, lifting the yen. In commodities, gold and silver tumbled on year-end liquidity, with February gold down about 4.6% and March silver off roughly 8-9%. Traders price a modest chance of a Fed rate cut in January amid bets on looser policy in 2026.

Stocks Settle Lower as Big-Tech Weakness Weighs on Major Indices

December 29, 2025, 6:35 PM EST. On Monday, major indices closed lower as weakness in megacap technology stocks weighed on sentiment. The S&P 500 (-0.35%), Dow Jones (-0.51%), and Nasdaq 100 (-0.46%) led the slide, while March E-mini futures likewise dipped. Losses in precious metals pressured miners, but a retreat in bond yields helped cushion losses, with the 10-year T-note yield sliding to about 4.10%. Crude oil rose over 2%, lifting energy names and limiting downside. Seasonal factors remain supportive for stocks, with the S&P 500 historically higher in the last two weeks of December. Looking ahead, markets will parse the MNI Chicago PMI, the FOMC minutes, initial unemployment claims, and the S&P manufacturing PMI; rate-cut odds are around 16% for January. Overseas, markets were mixed, with the Euro Stoxx 50 higher and Japan lower.

Stock futures little changed after S&P 500 losses as investors await housing data and Fed minutes

December 29, 2025, 6:31 PM EST. Stock futures were little changed overnight after the S&P 500 posted back-to-back losses as pressure spreads across the tech sector. S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq 100 futures were virtually flat, while the Dow gained about 9 points. In regular trading, the S&P 500 fell 0.35%, the Nasdaq Composite slid 0.5%, and the Dow dropped 249 points (0.51%). Traders trimmed positions in some big tech winners, with Nvidia off more than 1%, Palantir down 2.4%, Oracle -1.3%, and Tesla down over 3%. The market also grappled with concerns about an AI bubble and a slump in Newmont (-5.6%). Key data on home prices loom at 9 a.m. ET, followed by the Federal Reserve's December meeting minutes at 2 p.m., with markets closed Thursday for New Year's Day.

Stock futures little changed after S&P 500 back-to-back losses as investors await home price data and Fed minutes

December 29, 2025, 6:30 PM EST. Stock futures were little changed overnight after the S&P 500 posted back-to-back losses as pressure lingered across the tech sector. S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq 100 futures traded near flat, while Dow Jones futures rose about 9 points. In regular trading, the S&P 500 fell 0.35%, the Nasdaq Composite slid 0.5%, and the Dow dropped 249 points (0.51%). Traders rotated out of big tech winners like Nvidia, Palantir, and Tesla amid concerns over an AI bubble. Newmont slid 5.6% as material sector losses weighed on sentiment. On tap: the home price data at 9 a.m. ET and the Federal Reserve December meeting minutes at 2 p.m. ET; markets observe the New Year's Day holiday on Thursday.

Stock futures little changed after S&P 500 posts back-to-back losses: Live updates

December 29, 2025, 6:29 PM EST. Stock futures were flat overnight after the S&P 500 delivered back-to-back losses, with the Dow up only 9 points and the Nasdaq and S&P 500 slipping on Monday. In regular trading, the S&P 500 fell 0.35% and the Nasdaq Composite shed about 0.5%, while the Dow dropped roughly 249 points (0.51%). Tech names led the slide, with Nvidia and Palantir down, and Tesla tumbling over 3%; Oracle and others also retreated. The materials sector weighed on sentiment as Newmont fell about 5.6% after a silver slump. Traders await home price data and the Fed minutes for clues on policy. Note that markets will be closed Thursday for New Year's Day.

Stock futures hold steady after S&P 500 posts back-to-back losses as tech sells weigh on markets

December 29, 2025, 6:28 PM EST. Stock futures were little changed overnight after the S&P 500 logged back-to-back losses as pressure in the tech sector persisted. S&P 500 futures and Nasdaq 100 futures traded near flat, while Dow Jones futures inched up about 0.02%. In Monday trades, the S&P 500 fell 0.35%, the Nasdaq Composite dropped 0.5%, and the Dow slid 249 points (0.51%). Tech names led declines: Nvidia down >1%, Palantir off 2.4%, Oracle -1.3%, and Tesla down more than 3%. The materials sector lagged as Newmont sank 5.6% after weak silver. Traders will eye home price data at 9 a.m. ET and the Fed minutes at 2 p.m. ET; markets will be closed Thursday for New Year's Day.

Stocks Slide as Megacap Tech Weakness Weighs on Benchmarks

December 29, 2025, 6:27 PM EST. Stocks closed lower on Monday as megacap technology weakness dragged the major indexes: the S&P 500, Dow and Nasdaq 100 all finished down. A slide in metals weighed on miners, while crude oil rose more than 2%, supporting energy names. The 10-year yield slipped to a 1-week low around 4.10%, helping limit losses. Seasonal factors remain supportive for December, with the S&P 500 up, on average, in the last two weeks of the month. Ahead, a light US data slate includes the MNI Chicago PMI and FOMC minutes; odds of a rate cut at the next meeting sit near 16%. Overseas, the Euro Stoxx 50 edged up, while China posted gains and Japan fell.

Stocks Settle Lower as Megacap Tech Weakness Presses Markets

December 29, 2025, 6:26 PM EST. U.S. equities closed lower as megacap technology softness dragged major indices. The S&P 500 fell 0.35%, the Dow Jones -0.51%, and the Nasdaq 100 -0.46% as March futures also slipped. A retreat in metals prices tempered mining shares, while gains in bonds helped keep losses in check with the 10-year yield sliding to about 4.10%. Economic data were mixed: pending home sales rose 3.3% in December, beating estimates, while the Dallas Fed manufacturing outlook dropped to -10.9. Precious metals cooled after parabolic runs, and CME margin hikes added pressure. Crude rose more than 2%, supported by geopolitical tensions and demand optimism from Chinese fiscal pledges. Seasonal factors have historically supported December strength, and focus this week will be on the FOMC minutes, initial jobless claims, and the PMI data, with rate-cut odds around 16%.

Stocks Fall as Big Tech Weakness Leads Major Averages Lower

December 29, 2025, 6:25 PM EST. Stocks drifted lower Monday as weakness in megacap technology weighed on the majors. The S&P 500 fell ~0.35%, the Dow Jones -0.51%, and the Nasdaq 100 -0.46%, with March futures also retreating. Metals plunged on profit-taking after parabolic runs, while a drop in 10-year yields helped limit losses. Crude oil extended gains, supported by supply concerns and talks toward ending the Ukraine-Russia conflict, lifting energy names. Seasonal factors remain favorable for equities, with historical December strength noted by Citadel Securities. Looking ahead, key data include the MNI Chicago PMI, FOMC minutes, weekly unemployment claims, and the S&P manufacturing PMI. Markets price in roughly a 16% chance of a -25 bp cut at the January meeting.

Precious metal prices drag S&P/TSX lower as U.S. markets decline

December 29, 2025, 6:14 PM EST. Canada's main stock index closed in the red Monday, weighed by declines in precious metals as investors recalibrated expectations. The S&P/TSX Composite's basic materials sector sagged on weaker silver prices, while U.S. markets also slipped. IG Wealth Management's Pierre-Benoît Gauthier attributed the move to silver's near-parabolic rise followed by a sharp reversal, underscoring volatility in metals that can ripple through Canada's resource-linked equities. The cautious mood reflected across North American shares as miners and other commodity plays paused.

Associated British Foods: 53,381 Shares Bought for Cancellation at 2124.19p in December Buyback

December 29, 2025, 6:13 PM EST. Associated British Foods plc announced that on 29 December 2025 it repurchased 53,381 of its ordinary shares for cancellation under its share repurchase programme authorised by shareholders on 6 November 2025. The shares were bought from UBS AG London Branch at an average price of 2124.19 pence per share (about £21.24). Trades were executed across venues including the London Stock Exchange, BATS Europe, Chi-X Europe and Aquis, with a venue-weighted average price around 2124-2125p and trading prices ranging from 2115p to 2131p. The company intends to cancel the repurchased shares, and the release provides the per-venue and match-level detail for the day's activity.

Ardent Health (ARDT) Hits Oversold RSI of 28.4; Traders Eye Entry Point

December 29, 2025, 6:11 PM EST. Ardent Health (ARDT) moved into oversold territory after the RSI fell to 28.4, below the 30 threshold. The stock traded as low as $11.43 and last ticked around $11.54, with a 52-week range of $11.31-$20.72. By comparison, the SPY's RSI sits at 69.8, highlighting a broad-strength backdrop. A potential buy-the-dip setup could emerge if selling pressure abates, but traders should weigh fundamentals and the stock's volatility. The evidence suggests the near-term momentum is waning, and a careful approach is warranted as investors monitor any reversal signals.

Euronext N.V.: Investor Patience Tested as Volumes Remain Muted

December 29, 2025, 6:09 PM EST. Euronext N.V., Europe's largest market operator, has seen its shares drift in the mid-€80s as subdued trading volumes and rate uncertainty temper enthusiasm for the franchise. The stock has slipped from the year's highs in the low-€100s and sits in a lower half of its 52-week range, with a choppy three-month path and a broader downtrend from the €90s toward the current range. Analysts point to weak momentum indicators and overhead resistance, yet note a clear support zone that suggests investors aren't panicking but remain cautious until tangible data on volumes, listings and corporate actions improves. Over the past year, the stock has gained roughly 10-12%, aided by a dividend yield in the mid-single digits and a mid-teens total shareholder return, reflecting a steady, income-enhanced profile rather than explosive upside. The market remains watching for a revival in IPO activity to lift sentiment.

Why FCD.UN's 8.7% Yield Could Make It a Long-Term TSX Hold

December 29, 2025, 5:59 PM EST. An 8.7% yield on the TSX stock FCD.UN highlights a comfortable, long-term income prospect for investors. This REIT focuses on steady cash flow over flashy growth, owning a diversified mix of industrial, retail, residential, and service properties across Canada. Its monthly distributions have continued through higher rates and uneven real estate sentiment, making declines feel less personal for patient holders. The stock trades at a discount to underlying real estate value, helping explain the high yield while cash-generating assets stay productive. Investors should watch funds from operations (FFO) and adjusted funds from operations (AFFO) rather than GAAP earnings. With a margin of safety and possible modest sentiment improvements, it remains a plausible long-term income pick.

Stocks slip on Wall Street as year winds down; AI optimism wavers, energy helps the market

December 29, 2025, 5:58 PM EST. Stocks ended mixed in quiet holiday trading on Wall Street as the year winds down. The S&P 500 fell 24.20 to 6,905.74, the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 249.04 to 48,461.93, and the Nasdaq Composite slipped 118.75 to 23,474.35. Big tech weights stayed under pressure as the AI theme remains debated, with Nvidia down 1.2% and Broadcom off 0.8%. Energy gained as WTI crude jumped 2.4% to $58.08 and Brent rose 2.1% to $61.94. Gold fell 4.6% and silver slid 8.7% after bullion margin moves; however, both metals remain higher for the year. The 10-year Treasury yield eased to 4.11%. Traders eye a light calendar ahead of New Year's Day, with inflation and rate expectations lingering.

Crude Oil Rises as Ukraine Talks Fail to Break Through

December 29, 2025, 5:57 PM EST. Crude prices rose on Monday after weekend talks to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict produced no breakthrough. Front-month WTI and RBOB futures gained as investors priced in ongoing demand in China and signs of a tighter supply backdrop. The EIA delayed its weekly inventory release, with data previously pushed by Christmas holidays. China's crude imports are seen rising about 10% m/m to a record 12.2 million bpd, underpinning demand. US-led strikes in Nigeria and a blockade against sanctioned Venezuelan shipments add supply-side support, while Ukrainian attacks target Russian refineries and tankers. OPEC+ reiterated plans to pause production increases in Q1 2026 amid an anticipated global surplus per the IEA. The market is weighing geopolitics, sanctions, and the pace of demand as oil volatility persists.

Nat-Gas Prices Jump on Colder US Outlook and EIA Draw

December 29, 2025, 5:56 PM EST. January Nymex natural gas (NGF26) closed up about 7.35% to a 3-week high as colder-than-normal US temperatures raise heating demand. The forecast for January 3-7 calls for a colder Northeast, supporting the rally. The weekly EIA storage report showed a -166 bcf draw for the week ended Dec. 19, larger than the 5-year average of -110 bcf, signaling tight supplies. US dry gas production remains near a record high at about 113.7 bcf/d, with demand around 103.8 bcf/d. LNG net flows to US terminals rose to 19.8 bcf/d. European storage sits at 64% full vs 75% seasonal; Baker Hughes shows 127 active US rigs. The EIA also raised its 2025 production forecast to 107.74 bcf/d. Weather and supply dynamics keep gas in focus.

Dow Drops 249, Nasdaq Falls 119, S&P 500 Slips 24 as Year-End Trading Quietly Edges Lower

December 29, 2025, 5:55 PM EST. Stocks slipped on Wall Street Monday in quiet, holiday-shortened trading. The S&P 500 fell about 0.3% to 6,905.74, still on track for an eight-month rally and a year-to-date gain above 17%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 249.04 points to 48,461.93, while the Nasdaq composite declined 118.75 points to 23,474.35. Large-cap tech led the retreat as valuations showed signs of softening, with Nvidia down 1.2% and Broadcom down 0.8%. Energy names rose with higher oil: WTI settled at $58.08 a barrel and Brent at $61.94. Gold and silver reversed some gains after a liquidity move; gold fell about 4.6% while silver tumbled 8.7%. The Fed's rate path and inflation dynamics kept yields lower, as investors priced in ongoing slower growth.

Australia shares set to open largely flat as NZ edges higher

December 29, 2025, 5:53 PM EST.Australian shares are set to open largely flat, with ASX futures signaling a muted start. Across the Tasman, New Zealand equities are edging higher as investors weigh domestic data and global cues. Traders expect a cautious session ahead of key earnings and central bank commentary, with energy and financials the likely drivers of movement. In early trade, volumes could be light as markets digest mixed signals from overseas markets. While the broader risk environment remains fragile, the tone for now is one of stability and low volatility as investors look for direction from economic data and policy commentary.

1 Undervalued Canadian Tech Stock Down 76%: Is ALYA Worth a Buy Right Now

December 29, 2025, 5:52 PM EST. Alithya (ALYA), a Canada-based IT services provider, is down 76% from its highs. In Q2 fiscal 2026, revenue reached $124.3 million, up 11.5% YoY, and gross margins rose to 34.4% from 30.6%. U.S. revenue grew 34% to $63.1 million, now over half of sales, aided by the eVerge acquisition. Adjusted EBITDA came in at $12.8 million (10.3% margin), with trailing EBITDA above $50 million. Canadian revenue declined 7.4% as Alithya exited low-margin government contracts, a move that improved profitability. Net loss was $31 million due to a $38 million non-cash impairment, though adjusted earnings were $0.10 per share. Analysts forecast revenue growing to $661 million by 2030 and FCF to $70.5 million; at 10x forward FCF, upside could exceed 300% over three years.

CVB Financial (CVBF) Falls Below 200-Day Moving Average as Shares Slip Under $20

December 29, 2025, 5:51 PM EST. CVB Financial Corp (CVBF) crossed below its 200-day moving average of $20.01 during Thursday's session, trading as low as $19.75. The move comes as the stock sits about 5.6% softer on the day. The chart shows CVBF's current price relative to its 200 DMA and highlights a 52-week range of $16.01-$24.58 (reported as $24.575). A latest trade around $19.76 leaves the shares near the lower end of their range, signaling renewed near-term weakness. Investors will watch whether the stock can reclaim the 200 DMA or test additional support levels. The note reflects market movement and does not imply underlying fundamentals.

SkyWest (SKYW) Drops Below 200-Day Moving Average

December 29, 2025, 5:50 PM EST. SkyWest Inc. (SKYW) shares crossed below their 200-day moving average of $93.01 on Wednesday, trading as low as $92.13. The stock was down about 1.6% on the session. A chart shows SKYW's performance over the last year against the moving average, highlighting the break below the trend. The stock's 52-week range runs from $64.61 to $135.5699, with the last trade at $93.32. The move may prompt continued attention from traders watching for a possible test of support near the 200-DMA.

Stocks Fall as Megacap Tech Slide and Metals Plunge; Oil Rises on Energy Support

December 29, 2025, 5:49 PM EST. Stock indices drift lower as megacap technology stocks lead the retreat, with the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq 100 all about -0.2%. A plunge in metals prices pressured mining stocks despite broader risk appetite aided by lower 10-year Treasury yields, which slipped to a one-week low around 4.10%. Crude oil climbs over 2%, lifting energy names and damping losses in the market. US data were mixed: pending home sales rose more than expected, while the Dallas Fed manufacturing index cooled. Traders await the FOMC minutes and other readings later in the week. Overseas, markets are mixed, with the Euro Stoxx 50 up modestly and Japan soft. Seasonal factors historically favor late-December gains for the S&P 500.

Mexican Stocks End Banner Year, Outperform Wall Street as Peso Rises

December 29, 2025, 5:45 PM EST. Mexican stocks delivered one of their strongest years in decades, with the iShares Mexico ETF up over 50% and the peso posting its best year since 1993. Despite domestic headwinds, Mexican assets outpaced U.S. benchmarks like the S&P 500 ETF and QQQ in 2025. Banxico slashed rates by 300 basis points to 7%, boosting investor confidence and liquidity. Individual names shone: Industrias Peñoles up over 260%, Gentera more than 100%, and Cemex and Grupo México each up over 80%. The pair's gains contrast with a contracting economy (Q3 GDP down 0.2%) and a cautious outlook. Optimists point to potential gains from the USMCA review and World Cup-related boosts, though further rate cuts may be needed to sustain momentum.

Nio Rises on CEO Forecast for Q4 Vehicle Sales, Shares Jump 4.7%

December 29, 2025, 5:44 PM EST. Shares of Nio (NIO) rose 4.71% to $5.34 on Monday with about 68 million traded, above the 3-month average. The rally followed a bullish CEO William Li forecast for strong Q4 vehicle sales, with the midpoint implying more than 45,000 units in December. Nio has expanded its lineup with the mass-market Onvo and the premium Firefly sub-brand, helping deliver a November record month after October's 40,000+ vehicle milestone. The stock's move came as investors weigh the company's growing reliance on CATL for batteries and word of reduced supply cooperation with BYD for the Onvo L60. Broad markets were weaker, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq drifting lower. Still, management's upbeat delivery guidance underscores a path toward profitability amid ambitious expansion.

Gold and Silver Slump after Record Rally as CME Margin Hike and Export Curbs Loom

December 29, 2025, 5:43 PM EST. Gold and silver tumbled after hitting record highs, snapping a parabolic rally. Gold futures fell about 4.5% to just above $4,340/oz, while silver futures slid nearly 8% after briefly touching $80/oz. The move followed the CME margin hike on silver futures, forcing leveraged traders to cover or post cash. China plans to restrict silver exports starting January, heightening supply concerns amid AI-driven demand. Elon Musk weighed in on X, warning that the surge isn't good for industry. The Silver Institute notes roughly 60% of silver is used in industry, underscoring its role in electronics, solar panels, data centers, and EVs. A Bloomberg analyst warned this could be a topping pattern, with metals facing a global structural deficit and a call to take profits.

Newmont Inc P/E Valuation: Where It Stands Against Metals & Mining Peers

December 29, 2025, 5:42 PM EST. Newmont Inc. (NYSE:NEM) traded at $99.76, slipping 5.69% today, but the stock has gained 10.26% over the last month and 168.03% over the past year. The key question for investors is valuation: is the stock overvalued or undervalued given its earnings trajectory? The piece analyzes the P/E ratio, noting that a higher P/E implies higher future growth expectations, while a lower P/E can signal either undervaluation or muted growth prospects. Newmont's P/E is below the Metals & Mining industry average of 39.67, which might suggest relative undervaluation versus peers. However, P/E should not be used in isolation, and should be weighed with industry trends, business cycles, and other metrics. Investors should consider earnings quality, growth outlook, and dividend prospects in a broader framework.

Three TSX Stocks Under $20 Poised for Upside

December 29, 2025, 5:39 PM EST. Investors can start with modest capital in the TSX by targeting names trading under $20. SECURE Waste Infrastructure (SES) offers a diversified energy and waste-infrastructure cash flow story, with margins protected by efficiency and a drilling-cycle buffer, even as metals recycling faces near-term headwinds. 5N Plus (VNP) is a leading supplier of specialty semiconductors and high-performance materials across renewables, space, health and pharma, with a growing pipeline and a major supplier relationship expanding volumes. CES Energy (CEU) provides specialized chemicals across the oil-and-gas value chain, helping drilling efficiency and pipeline protection, with potential catalysts from project activity. All three blend solid fundamentals, manageable risk, and long-term tailwinds that can lift them as market conditions improve. These under-$20 stocks offer accessible exposure to growth.

NVIDIA (NVDA) Stock Dips 1.2% as Analyst Upgrades Persist

December 29, 2025, 5:38 PM EST.NVIDIA (NVDA) slipped 1.2% in mid-day trading, hitting as low as $185.91 and last at $188.22 on volume of 119,284,208 shares (below the 221,682,516 average). The stock closed previously at $190.53. The week features a wave of analyst activity: DZ Bank reiterates a Buy, Zacks upgrades to Strong Buy, Weiss reiterates a Buy, Rosenblatt lifts target to $245 with a Buy, and KeyCorp raises target to $275 with an Overweight. Market signals show a Buy consensus (MarketBeat) with an average target of $262.14. Key metrics: 50-day MA $186.12, 200-day MA $177.01; current ratio 4.47, quick ratio 3.71, debt/equity 0.06; EPS $1.30 vs $1.23 estimate; revenue $57.01B. Dividend $0.01 per share.

Bathurst Resources (ASX:BRL) delivers ~10% five-year CAGR despite quarterly setback

December 29, 2025, 5:36 PM EST. Bathurst Resources Limited (ASX: BRL) has delivered a solid five-year story, with total returns around +64% and an implied CAGR near 10%, beating the market by roughly 54% over the period. In the most recent quarter, the stock fell about 18%, underscoring typical mining-name volatility. Yet the five-year arc shows a transition from losses to profitability, supported by improving EPS and a trajectory toward sustainable growth. Long-term holders have earned around 10% per year, even as near-term momentum wavers with commodity cycles. Investors should note the article's warning signs and consider whether factors such as insider buying or other catalysts could unlock further upside.

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  • Live Oak Bancshares (LOB) Valuation After Recent Share-Price Swings
    January 18, 2026, 12:03 PM EST. Live Oak Bancshares (LOB) trades at $37.60, after volatile moves that produced a 90-day return of 10.26%, a 1-year total shareholder return of -7.18% and a 3-year gain of 23.24%. The latest analysis flags upside potential, with a narrative fair value around $42.00. That implies the stock is undervalued, though the upside hinges on sustained growth in new verticals and the ability to sell government-guaranteed loans at premiums, which can diversify revenue and support earnings. Traditional checks tell a tighter story: the stock trades at a P/E of 25.1x versus 15.8x for peers and 11.9x for the broader US Banks industry, above the firm's 21.2x target. Risks include heavy reliance on government-backed lending and ongoing digital investment costs that could pressure margins if results disappoint.
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KLA stock hit a fresh high into year-end — here’s what traders are watching next
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