Stocks rise after U.S. attacks Venezuela. Gold tells a different story

Group 1: Market Reaction - The S&P 500 index, heavily influenced by the oil and gas sector, was expected to open higher following geopolitical events, particularly the U.S. plans regarding Venezuela after the capture of Nicolás Maduro [1] - Oil stocks such as Chevron, Valero, and ConocoPhillips were leading early gains, indicating a positive market sentiment towards U.S. energy companies [1][6] - The rise in gold and silver prices suggests that while investors are optimistic about the energy sector, they are also hedging against potential geopolitical risks and uncertainties [2][7] Group 2: Geopolitical Context - Nicolás Maduro was indicted on charges including narco-terrorism and drug trafficking, which U.S. prosecutors claim link senior Venezuelan officials to trafficking networks [3] - Maduro and his allies have rejected these charges, framing them as politically motivated and part of a broader narrative of foreign interference in Venezuela [4] - The legality of the U.S. operation against Maduro remains uncertain, with younger American voters expressing strong disapproval of military interventions [5] Group 3: Investor Sentiment - Investors perceive a potential increase in pricing power and political strength for American oil companies due to the current geopolitical situation [6] - The surge in precious metals indicates growing anxiety among investors, who are increasingly concerned about the unpredictability of policy decisions and geopolitical norms [7]