Holiday Cheer Lifts Global Markets Modestly

Overall Market Overview

Global equities extended their positive tone in a holiday-shortened trading week, supported largely by continued strength in artificial intelligence–related stocks in the US and improving sentiment around interest rate outlooks. While US indices recorded another day of gains, European markets traded mixed, and Asian markets largely mirrored cautious optimism with selective advances.

US: AI Strength Extends Rally

US markets climbed for the fourth straight session as AI-driven momentum continued to support sentiment. The Dow Jones $DJIA(.DJI)$  added 79.73 points to close at 48,442.41 (+0.1%), while the S&P 500 $S&P 500(.SPX)$  gained 31.30 points to 6,909.79 (+0.5%). The Nasdaq Composite $NASDAQ(.IXIC)$  also advanced 0.6%, reflecting strong investor appetite in technology and growth sectors despite lighter holiday trading volumes.

Europe: Mixed and Cautious Trading

European markets showed a mixed performance in subdued trade. Germany’s DAX rose 0.2% and the UK’s FTSE 100 also gained 0.2%, while France’s CAC 40 dipped 0.2%. With the year-end approaching, markets remained cautious, balancing economic data expectations against geopolitical and policy uncertainties.

Asia: Momentum Continues with Mild Gains

Asian equities generally followed the global positive trend. Optimism over potential further US rate cuts and easing AI-related concerns supported sentiment. Japan’s Nikkei closed flat, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng $HSI(HSI)$  slipped 0.1%, while China’s Shanghai Composite edged higher by 0.1%, signaling steady but measured confidence.

Outlook and Insights

Markets appear to be ending the year on a constructive note, buoyed by improving risk appetite and optimism around monetary policy easing in 2026. AI remains a dominant investment theme, continuing to drive market leadership in the US. However, thin trading volumes, lingering economic uncertainties, and regional divergences suggest that investors should remain selective and mindful of volatility.

Conclusion

Global markets continue to display resilience, supported by technology strength and improving macro sentiment. While gains may moderate into year-end, underlying optimism provides a supportive backdrop, positioning markets for a potentially constructive start to the new year—provided economic data and policy expectations remain aligned.