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Global Markets Slide as AI, Crypto, and Precious Metals Face Heightened Volatility 
Dollar Steadies Ahead of ECB and BoE Decisions as Markets Turn Risk-Off 
China Extends Gold Buying Streak as Reserves Surge Despite Volatile Prices 
Silver Prices Plunge in Asian Trade as Dollar Strength Triggers Fresh Precious Metals Sell-Off 
Thailand Inflation Remains Negative for 10th Straight Month in January 
A more independent Europe is taking shape, prompting investors to eye long-term opportunities beyond traditional U.S.-focused strategies. The European Union’s €800 billion rearmament plan and Germany’s historic infrastructure and defence spending are key drivers of this shift. Defence stocks are leading the rally, with European aerospace and defence shares up 33% in 2025. Rheinmetall even briefly traded at 44 times its expected earnings, highlighting investor optimism. Citi projects annual profit growth of 8–32% for defence firms like BAE and Rheinmetall through 2028.
Despite the push for European-made arms, 78% of EU defence procurement still goes outside the bloc, with 63% going to the U.S. Yet, opportunities span the full defence value chain—including logistics, data, and communications. Eutelsat surged 260% this month, driven by speculation it could replace Starlink in Ukraine.
Germany’s fiscal expansion could result in over €1 trillion in new debt, adding to the EU’s €650 billion joint debt. The new SAFE bonds, expected to raise €150 billion, signal a more permanent EU borrowing structure—bolstering the euro’s reserve currency status.
Investors are also bullish on European banks, with the sector up 26% YTD. Economic optimism and expected regulatory easing are driving interest in banking and insurance stocks. Southern European equities like Spain and Italy also offer value due to lower exposure to U.S. tariffs and strong banking sectors.
Meanwhile, Europe's green energy push continues. Renewables provided 11% of EU electricity in 2024, surpassing coal. Utility giants Iberdola, Endesa, and Enel have gained 7–16% this year. Germany is allocating €100 billion to support climate and economic transformation, positioning Europe as a long-term play across multiple sectors.
