Notable Developments at the Market Opening in 2025

What You Need to Know Before the Market Opens

As we approach the year 2025, a dynamic period is unfolding in the markets. Examining the US stock markets, it is important to note that the S&P 500 index has reached record levels at 6,930 points, but has seen limited losses due to profit-taking. Dow Jones and Nasdaq, on the other hand, recorded a decline of around 0.4-0.5%. Throughout the year, Dow Jones has had a return of 14%, while Nasdaq’s is over 20%.

Investor's Favorite: Fed Meeting Minutes

The Fed's meeting minutes from December is the main agenda for the markets. The Fed has implemented a total of 75 basis points in interest rate cuts over the last three meetings, bringing the policy rate down to the range of 3.50-3.75%. However, ongoing disagreements during this period have drawn attention. President Donald Trump has threatened to sue Jerome Powell for “gross negligence,” adding to the uncertainty in the markets.

Company News and Commodity Market Developments

An agreement by Intel to sell shares worth $5 billion to Nvidia has attracted attention, while Boeing's high-value defense contract obtained from Israel has also drawn investors' interest. In the commodity market, realizations following record levels in precious metals have led to sharp declines in silver and platinum prices. However, it is argued that in long-term assessments, the main trend of precious metals is not disrupted with geopolitical risks, central bank purchases, and a weakening dollar.

Global Market Outlook

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

On the Borsa Istanbul front, a cautious outlook prevails. The BIST 100 index closed the day with a loss of over 1%, retreating to the level of 11,150. While banking stocks remained more resilient during the day, there was a significant sell-off in industrial stocks.

Lastly, on the currency side, the upward movement of the dollar continues. The Dollar/TL is attempting to settle above the level of 42.90. The divergence of the TL from weaker currencies, despite rising costs, can be considered an important development in the markets.