Stock markets in Canada, U.S. reach new highs amid continued focus on Venezuela

Market Overview - The S&P/TSX composite index increased by 187.07 points, reaching 32,407.02 [1] - The February gold contract rose by US$44.60, reaching US$4,496.10 per ounce, positively impacting basic materials stocks [1] Geopolitical Impact - The geopolitical environment is described as destabilizing, particularly following the U.S. military's capture of the Venezuelan leader, which has led to a rally in gold prices [2] - U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to transfer Venezuela's oil industry to American companies, indicating significant geopolitical implications [2] Oil Market Dynamics - The February crude oil contract decreased by US$1.19, settling at US$57.13 per barrel [4] - Canadian oil companies showed mixed performance, with Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. down 1.5%, Cenovus Energy Inc. down 2%, while Suncor Energy Inc. rose by 1.5% [3] Technology Sector Movements - Major U.S. tech companies experienced notable stock movements, with the Dow Jones industrial average up by 484.90 points and the S&P 500 index reaching an all-time high [4] - Amazon's stock rose by 3.4%, contributing positively to the market, while Apple saw a 1.8% decline [5] - Micron Technology's stock increased by 10%, further supporting market gains [5] - Nvidia's stock fluctuated, ultimately finishing 0.5% lower [5] AI and Market Trends - Advances in AI technology have driven the broader market to record highs, with investors closely monitoring corporate investments in AI during the CES trade show in Las Vegas [6] - The Canadian dollar traded at 72.52 cents US, a slight decrease from 72.63 cents US the previous day [6]