Notable Developments at the Market Opening of 2025

What You Need to Know Before the Market Opens

As we approach 2025, a dynamic period is being experienced in the markets. When examining the US stock markets, it is noteworthy 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 recorded a decline of around 0.4-0.5%. However, for the year, Dow Jones has a return of 14% and Nasdaq over 20%.

Investor's Focus: Fed Meeting Minutes

The minutes of the Fed's December meeting are the main agenda item for the markets. 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, the ongoing differences of opinion during this process are noteworthy. President Donald Trump has threatened to sue Jerome Powell for "gross negligence," adding to the uncertainty in the markets.

Corporate News and Developments in Commodity Markets

The $5 billion stock sale agreement between Intel and Nvidia has caught attention, while Boeing's high-value defense contract obtained from Israel has also piqued investor interest. In the commodity markets, 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 for precious metals remains intact.

Global Market Observations

Oil prices are experiencing fluctuations due to tensions between Russia and Ukraine 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 declined to 11,150 levels, closing the day with a loss of over 1%. Banking stocks remained more resilient throughout the day, while there was significant selling pressure in industrial stocks.

Finally, on the currency front, upward movements in the dollar continue. The USD/TRY is attempting to settle above the 42.90 level. Despite rising costs, the differentiation of the Turkish Lira from weaker currencies is considered a notable development in the markets.