Core Viewpoint - Analysts predict that spot gold prices, which recently reached a record high of over $5,000 per ounce, are expected to rise further towards $6,000 this year due to increasing global tensions and robust demand from central banks and retail investors [1] Group 1 - Spot gold prices hit a record high above $5,000 per ounce on Monday [1] - Analysts anticipate gold prices to climb towards $6,000 this year [1] - The increase in gold prices is attributed to mounting global tensions and strong demand from central banks and retail [1]

Core Viewpoint - Oil prices continued to rise, extending gains from the previous session, driven by geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran, despite the resumption of full operations at Kazakhstan's main export pipeline [1] Group 1 - Oil prices increased by more than 2% in the previous session [1] - Tensions between the U.S. and Iran are causing uncertainty among investors [1] - Kazakhstan's main export pipeline has resumed full operations, which typically would stabilize prices [1]

Core Viewpoint - S-Oil, primarily owned by Saudi Aramco, anticipates strong refining margins in the first quarter due to consistent demand, supply disruptions, and planned closures [1] Company Summary - S-Oil expects refining margins to remain robust in the first quarter [1] - The company attributes this expectation to steady demand and supply disruptions [1] - Planned closures are also contributing factors to the anticipated strong performance [1] Industry Summary - The refining sector is likely to benefit from ongoing demand and supply chain challenges [1] - The overall market conditions suggest a favorable environment for refining margins in the near term [1]

Group 1 - The number of job vacancies in Britain continued to decline in December, indicating a cooling labor market [1] - The rate of increase in advertised salaries has slowed down, further suggesting a shift in labor market dynamics [1]

Core Viewpoint - Samsung Electronics is set to begin production of its next-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips, known as HBM4, next month, with plans to supply these chips to Nvidia [1] Group 1: Company Developments - Samsung Electronics will initiate the production of HBM4 chips, which are designed to enhance data processing capabilities [1] - The collaboration with Nvidia indicates a strategic partnership aimed at advancing technology in high-performance computing [1] Group 2: Industry Implications - The introduction of HBM4 chips is expected to impact the semiconductor industry by pushing the boundaries of memory performance [1] - This move aligns with the growing demand for advanced memory solutions in sectors such as artificial intelligence and gaming [1]

Core Viewpoint - Gold has reached a record high, surpassing the $5,000 per ounce mark, driven by increased demand for safe-haven assets amid escalating geopolitical tensions [1] Group 1 - The price of gold has extended its historic rally, indicating strong investor interest in the commodity [1] - The surge in gold prices reflects a broader trend of investors seeking stability in uncertain times [1]

Core Insights - Baker Hughes reported an 11% increase in adjusted profit for the fourth quarter, driven by strong demand for its gas technology equipment and services, which compensated for the weakness in its oilfield services [1] Financial Performance - The adjusted profit for the fourth quarter rose by 11%, indicating a positive trend in profitability [1] - The demand for gas technology equipment and services was a significant factor in this profit increase, highlighting a shift in market focus [1] Market Dynamics - The performance in gas technology contrasts with the weakness observed in oilfield services, suggesting a potential area of concern for the oil sector [1] - The overall demand dynamics indicate a growing preference for gas-related technologies over traditional oilfield services [1]

Core Viewpoint - Merck has ceased discussions regarding the acquisition of Revolution Medicines, a company focused on developing cancer drugs, as reported by the Wall Street Journal [1] Company Summary - Merck is a major player in the pharmaceutical industry, known for its extensive portfolio in drug development, including oncology [1] - Revolution Medicines specializes in innovative cancer therapies, indicating a strategic interest in the oncology sector [1] Industry Summary - The oncology drug market continues to attract significant attention from large pharmaceutical companies, highlighting the competitive landscape in cancer treatment development [1] - The cessation of acquisition talks may reflect broader market dynamics or strategic realignments within Merck and its investment priorities in the oncology space [1]

Core Viewpoint - A crude tanker chartered by Trafigura has made a significant move by departing from Venezuela's Jose port to Louisiana Offshore Oil Port (LOOP), marking the first cargo shipment directly to the U.S. from Venezuela in recent times [1] Group 1 - The departure of the tanker signifies a potential shift in oil trade dynamics between Venezuela and the U.S., indicating a possible easing of restrictions or a change in market conditions [1] - This event highlights Trafigura's strategic positioning in the oil market, leveraging opportunities in regions with previously limited access to U.S. markets [1] - The shipment could have implications for U.S. oil supply and pricing, as it introduces Venezuelan crude into the U.S. market, which may affect domestic production and imports [1]

It's the biggest opening yet of the country's vast market as the two sides close in on a free trade pact that could come as early as Tuesday. ...