Group 1: Gold Market - Gold prices surged to a record high of $3,920 per ounce, marking a nearly 50% increase this year as investors sought safe-haven assets amid US government shutdown and geopolitical uncertainty [3][7] - The performance of gold reflects a broader investor pivot towards stability during turbulent times [3] Group 2: Japan's Financial Markets - Japan's Nikkei futures rose by 4% following the announcement that pro-stimulus leader Sanae Takaichi is set to become prime minister, indicating anticipated growth-boosting policies [4][7] - The yen depreciated by 1.2% as investors reacted positively to the political development, which also spurred a rally in commodities [4] Group 3: US Housing Market - President Trump urged Fannie Mae (FNMA) and Freddie Mac (FMCC) to promote large-scale homebuilders to boost housing development, aiming to restore the "American Dream" [5][7] - This directive signals a potential shift in federal housing policy focused on increasing the availability of new homes [5] Group 4: Oil Market - Oil prices increased following OPEC+'s decision to approve a smaller-than-expected output hike of 137,000 barrels per day, providing temporary market support [6][7] - Despite this, concerns over a projected global surplus in 2026 and weakening demand continue to limit significant upside for crude prices [6] Group 5: BYD's SkyRail Project - BYD's $1 billion SkyRail monorail project in China has stalled due to local government funding drying up, resulting in numerous half-built stations and idle trains [7][8] - Despite the setbacks, BYD's founder Wang Chuanfu remains committed to reviving the project [8]
Global Markets Roiled by Gold Surge, Japan Stimulus Hopes, and Geopolitical Tensions