"Notable Developments at the 2025 Market Opening"

Things You Should Know Before the Market Opens

As we approach 2025, a volatile period is being experienced in the markets. When we examine the US stock markets, it should be noted 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 have recorded declines of around 0.4-0.5%. However, year-to-date, Dow Jones has a return of 14%, and Nasdaq has a return of over 20%.

Investor's Favorite: Fed Meeting Minutes

The Fed's meeting minutes from December are the main agenda item in the markets. The Fed has implemented a total of 75 basis points of interest rate cuts in the last three meetings, bringing the policy rate to a range of 3.50-3.75%. However, the continuation of differences in opinions during this process is noteworthy. President Donald Trump has increased market uncertainty by threatening to sue Jerome Powell on grounds of "gross negligence."

Company News and Commodity Market Developments

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 attracted investors' interest. In the commodity market, profit realizations after record levels in precious metals have led to sharp pullbacks in silver and platinum prices. However, in long-term evaluations, geopolitical risks, central bank purchases, and a weakening dollar are suggested to not disrupt the main trend of precious metals.

Global Market Sentiments

Oil prices are fluctuating due to tensions between Russia and Ukraine and risks in the Middle East. How geopolitical strategies evolve continues to influence the 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%. While banking stocks remained more resilient during the day, significant selling pressure was observed in industrial stocks.

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