The U.S. dollar recorded its steepest annual decline, reflecting growing expectations that the Federal Reserve will shift to easier policy in 2026. The move sets an early-year tone across currencies and risk assets as investors recalibrate for potential rate cuts and looser financial conditions.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Oil suffers worst year since 2020; Brent seen near $55 in the near term
Crude prices logged their biggest annual decline since 2020, underscoring softer demand signals and ample supply. Near-term expectations for Brent around $55 keep pressure on energy shares and temper inflation impulses heading into 2026.
Source: Seeking Alpha
FTSE 100 crosses 10,000 as Europe opens 2026 higher
European equities started the year in the green, with the UK's FTSE 100 breaching the 10,000 mark for the first time. The symbolic milestone caps a strong 2025 for London’s blue-chips and may draw renewed interest to UK cyclicals and commodities-heavy names.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Bulgaria joins the eurozone, extending the bloc’s economic reach
Bulgaria formally adopted the euro, expanding the currency union and deepening integration within the EU. ECB President Christine Lagarde hailed the euro as a “powerful symbol” of unity, with implications for trade, investment, and monetary transmission across Eastern Europe.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Baidu jumps as AI chip arm Kunlunxin files for landmark Hong Kong spinoff
Baidu shares surged after its AI chip unit, Kunlunxin, confidentially filed for a Hong Kong listing. The move highlights strong investor appetite for China’s homegrown AI semiconductor ecosystem and could catalyze further capital markets activity in the sector.
Source: Seeking Alpha
Buffett’s final day as CEO: Berkshire closes lower as leadership era ends
Berkshire Hathaway shares finished lower on Warren Buffett’s last day as chief executive, marking the end of a defining tenure for the conglomerate. Investors now turn to continuity in capital allocation and strategy under new leadership.
Source: Seeking Alpha
U.S. delays tariff hikes on upholstered furniture and kitchen cabinets
Planned tariff increases on certain furniture and cabinets have been postponed, easing immediate cost pressures for importers and retailers. The delay could soften potential consumer price pass-through in early 2026 and relieve a segment tied to housing and discretionary spending.
Source: Seeking Alpha
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