Global Markets Rise as Tech Stocks Lead, Yen Strengthens, and Commodities Hit Record Highs

Global financial markets started a holiday-shortened week on a positive note, with most major stock indexes posting gains as technology stocks rebounded and investor sentiment improved. Wall Street was supported by broad-based buying, particularly in the tech sector, where Nvidia shares climbed after reports that the company plans to resume shipments of advanced artificial intelligence chips to China ahead of the Lunar New Year. The move boosted confidence in the AI and semiconductor space, helping reinforce the so-called “Santa Claus rally” that often lifts stocks toward year-end.

U.S. equity markets closed higher across the board, with all 11 S&P 500 sectors finishing in positive territory. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced modestly, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also recorded solid gains. Trading volumes are expected to remain light through the rest of the week due to the Christmas holiday, with U.S. equity and bond markets closed on Thursday. Market participants remain optimistic that late November marked an intermediate bottom for technology and AI-related stocks.

Global stocks also benefited from strength in commodities. Gold and silver prices surged to record highs, driven by safe-haven demand and currency movements. Spot gold and silver both posted strong daily gains after reaching new all-time peaks. Oil prices climbed as well, following reports that the U.S. Coast Guard attempted to intercept an oil tanker near Venezuelan waters, adding to geopolitical supply concerns.

In currency markets, the Japanese yen strengthened sharply against the U.S. dollar after senior Japanese officials warned against excessive and one-sided currency movements. The comments sparked speculation about possible market intervention, pushing the dollar lower against the yen and marking its steepest daily decline in weeks. Investors are now watching upcoming Bank of Japan minutes and public remarks from central bank officials for further signals.

Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury yields edged slightly higher, reflecting cautious optimism in the bond market. In corporate news, shares of Warner Bros Discovery rose after reports that Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison backed financing related to a major acquisition bid, lifting broader media stocks. Overall, global markets reflected improving risk appetite as investors balance holiday-thinned trading with optimism around technology, commodities, and year-end momentum.