Gold and silver prices break records, gas prices hit 4-year-low, why future rate cuts may be on hold

Market Trends & Economic Indicators - Gold prices hit a record high, up 70% this year, with 50 record highs this year [1] - Copper prices also reached a record high, increasing by 30% this year, driven by AI data center usage [2] - US holiday retail spending increased by 42% year-over-year across all payment types [3] - Gas prices hit a 4-year low average nationwide ahead of the holiday travel rush [2] - Strong GDP print of 43% leads to uncertainty about future rate cuts [5] Fintech & Investment Opportunities - Fintech valuations are reflecting a negative scenario, potentially creating investment opportunities [9] - Consumer spending is supportive during the holiday season, impacting fintech [8] - Some fintech business models, like Block and PayPal, are seen as mature [11] - Dave, a neo bank providing short-term loans, shows promise in meeting consumer financial needs [12][13] Automotive Industry & Ford's Strategy - Ford's stock is up 36% year-to-date, despite a $195 billion charge tied to EV plans [30] - Ford CEO Jim Farley highlights a shortage of 400000 repair technicians across the economy, with 6000 bays in Ford dealerships without technicians [33][38] - Ford faces a $2 billion net tariff impact, hindering further US investments [49] - Ford acknowledges that customers are not interested in $75000 EVs and is shifting focus to more affordable EVs [53][54] AI & Technology - The market is pricing in tech and the S&P at 23%, but expectations are adjusted down to 18% [16][17] - Software names like Salesforce and Intuit may benefit from AI [17] - HUT 8's deal with Enthropic and Fluid Stack, backed by Google, indicates strong demand for AI infrastructure [22] - Service Now will acquire cyber security startup Armis in a $775 billion deal to expand its cyber security offerings amid the AI boom [28]