"Notable Developments at the 2025 Market Opening"

What You Need to Know Before the Market Opens

As we approach 2025, a volatile period is being experienced in the markets. When examining the US stock markets, it can be noted that the S&P 500 index has reached record levels at 6,930 points, but has experienced limited losses due to profit-taking. Dow Jones and Nasdaq recorded a decline of around 0.4-0.5%. For the year, Dow Jones has a return of 14%, while Nasdaq has over 20% returns.

Investor's Favorite: Fed Meeting Minutes

The Fed's December meeting minutes are at the forefront of the market agenda. The Fed has cut interest rates by a total of 75 basis points in the last three meetings, bringing the policy rate down to a range of 3.50-3.75%. However, it is noteworthy that differences of opinion continue during this process. President Donald Trump has threatened to sue Jerome Powell for "gross negligence," becoming a factor that increases uncertainty in the markets.

Company News and Commodity Market Developments

The $5 billion stock sale agreement between Intel and Nvidia is attracting attention, while Boeing's high-value defense contract with Israel also piques 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 assessments, geopolitical risks, central bank purchases, and the weakening dollar suggest that the main trend of precious metals has not been disrupted.

Global Market Observations

Oil prices are fluctuating due to Russia-Ukraine tensions and risks in the Middle East. How geopolitical strategies evolve continues to affect market direction.

On the Borsa Istanbul front, a cautious outlook prevails. The BIST 100 index dropped to a level of 11,150, closing the day with over a 1% loss. Banking stocks remained more resilient during the day, while there was a distinct selling pressure in industrial stocks.

Lastly, on the currency side, the upward movements in the dollar continue. The USD/TRY is trying to settle above the level of 42.90. Despite rising costs, the Turkish Lira's differentiation from other weak currencies is considered a remarkable development in the markets.