"Notable Developments at the 2025 Market Opening"

What You Need to Know Before the Market Opens

As we approach 2025, markets are experiencing a dynamic period. When examining the US stock markets, it should be noted that the S&P 500 index reached a record level at 6,930 points but saw limited losses due to profit-taking. Dow Jones and Nasdaq, on the other hand, recorded declines of about 0.4-0.5%. For the year overall, Dow Jones has a return of 14%, while Nasdaq has over 20%.

Investor's Favorite: Fed Meeting Minutes

The minutes from the Fed's meeting in December are a key agenda item for the markets. The Fed has reduced interest rates by a total of 75 basis points over the last three meetings, bringing the policy rate to a range of 3.50-3.75%. However, ongoing disagreements during this process are noteworthy. President Donald Trump has threatened to sue Jerome Powell for "gross negligence," adding a factor of uncertainty to the markets.

Company News and Developments in Commodity Markets

The $5 billion stock sale agreement between Intel and Nvidia has drawn attention, while Boeing's high-value defense contract with Israel has also piqued investor interest. In the commodity market, profit realizations following record levels in precious metals have led to sharp declines in silver and platinum prices. However, in long-term evaluations, geopolitical risks, central bank purchases, and a weakening dollar suggest that the main trend in precious metals remains intact.

Global Market Insights

Oil prices are experiencing fluctuations due to tensions between Russia and Ukraine and risks in the Middle East. The evolution of geopolitical strategies continues to impact market direction.

On the Borsa Istanbul front, a cautious outlook prevails. The BIST 100 index declined to 11,150 points, closing the day with a loss of over 1%. Banking stocks remained relatively resilient during the day, while there was noticeable selling pressure on industrial stocks.

Finally, on the currency side, the upward movement of the dollar continues. USD/TRY is attempting to settle above the 42.90 level. Despite rising costs, the separation of the TL from other weak currencies is considered a notable development in the markets.