Day on the US stock market: S&P 500 breaks the peak, gold triumphs at the level of 4500 USD (December 24, 2025)

I. Macroeconomic Situation and Fed Decisions

Controversies Among Monetary Authorities

Presidential candidate Hassett emphasizes insufficient interest rate cuts in the USA compared to other central banks. The high GDP growth in Q3 (4.3%) is attributed to reduced trade deficits through the implementation of trade tariffs.

The administration warns against individuals with differing views on the Fed chair position and demands rate cuts during a solid economic period. Tensions between the White House and the monetary institution increase uncertainty, currently supporting the market but threatening increased volatility in the medium term.

Economy Accelerates

The annual GDP growth rate was 4.3%, exceeding forecasts. Consumer spending and exports drove the growth, with corporate profits increasing by $166 billion. Despite optimistic indicators, concerns about future impacts of trade policies may hinder growth momentum.

II. Commodity Markets: Gold and Energy in Focus

Gold Boom

Spot gold broke the $4,500 barrier, and futures contracts opened at $4,481.80 per ounce, marking a 0.3% daily increase. Geopolitical risks and inflation expectations support gold price growth.

Energy Under Volatility Pressure

Oil prices rose slightly: WTI increased to $58.43 per barrel (growth of 0.73%), Brent to $62.48 (growth of 0.66%). Natural gas prices showed a dynamic increase of 11.75%, driven by global demand expectations and weather changes. Energy market volatility could have significant consequences for global supply chains.

III. Market and Sector Overview

Main Market Barometers Results

Dow Jones rose by 0.2% to 48,442.41 points, marking the fourth consecutive day of gains. S&P 500 increased by 0.5% to 6,909.79 points, reaching new closing highs supported by the tech sector. Nasdaq grew by 0.6% to 23,561.84 points, driven by IT companies.

Technology Dominates

Demand for AI solutions drives gains in most giants. Nvidia, a chip leader, rose 3.01% to $189.21 due to expectations for H200 processor deliveries. Google benefits from plans to introduce AR/AI glasses, Microsoft is supported by investments in AI infrastructure, Apple rebounded strongly, and Amazon followed sector trends. Meta showed mixed results. Tesla declined, reflecting sales issues in Europe.

Energy Gains on the Market

The energy sector increased by 0.73%, following commodity price rebounds. Rising natural gas prices and global outlook improvements boost sentiment. Consumer sector remained stable, although consumer confidence has fallen for the fifth consecutive month – yet solid macro data provide a safety cushion.

IV. Focus on Key Companies

Nvidia: H200 Shipments Before Chinese New Year

Nvidia plans to deliver H200 chips to China before the holidays, optimizing AI computing performance. Ecosystem collaboration with partners, including plans for Google’s AR/AI glasses in 2026, strengthens its leadership position. Broadcom CEO sold shares worth over $40 million, attracting market attention. Goldman Sachs and other institutions see high growth potential next year, though US-China trade tensions pose risks.

Tesla: Decline in European Sales

Tesla’s European sales fell 12% year-over-year in November amid increasing competition in the electric vehicle market. Morgan Stanley lowered the target price, citing market saturation and the need for innovation. Investors should monitor signals of potential demand revival.

ServiceNow: Multi-Billion Acquisition of Armis

ServiceNow acquires Armis for $7.75 billion, enhancing its cybersecurity potential. Wall Street views such consolidation transactions positively as strengthening competitiveness. A wave of acquisitions could lead to overvaluation of tech stocks.

Dominion Energy and Other Midcap Companies

Dominion Energy’s shares show volatility. Mid-sized companies like Clearwater Analytics performed better. The energy transition opens long-term opportunities with stable returns, though monitoring regulatory environment changes remains crucial.

V. Calendar and Forecasts

Today in the Market

21:30 – New unemployment benefit claims (USA, week ending December 20) – significance ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 23:30 – EIA crude oil inventories (USA, week ending December 19) – significance ⭐⭐⭐

Trading Conditions

The US stock market will close early at 13:00 due to upcoming Christmas holidays, resulting in lower liquidity. The Bank of Japan will publish the minutes from October’s meeting with signals on monetary policy.

VI. Summary and Outlook

The S&P 500 hits new highs mainly supported by the tech sector, while most stocks decline – illustrating a bifurcated market. Strong GDP data (4.3%) and massive retail capital inflows drive the “Santa Rally,” with $380 billion in AI infrastructure investments fueling tech giants. Rising natural gas prices and energy market volatility add layers of complexity.

Year-end optimism is present, but low liquidity risks fluctuations. Key will be employment data – the labor market’s ability to sustain current economic growth pace.

Disclaimer: Content collected by AI, manually verified. Not investment advice.