Markets hit records after strong US growth; tech M&A, oil volatility, GLP‑1 approvals, China policy shifts, EU antitrust moves and global economy resilience dominate business headlines.
1
S&P 500 hits fresh record after stronger‑than‑expected US growth
The S&P 500 rose to an all‑time high after US GDP expanded faster than expected, boosting investor optimism and a year‑end rally.
2
US GDP growth surprises; consumer confidence shows mixed signals
US economic data showed a 4.3% expansion, the strongest pace in two years, while consumer confidence dipped in December, reflecting labour‑market cooling despite growth.
3
Novo Nordisk shares surge on US approval of Wegovy pill
Shares of Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk jumped after US regulators approved an oral form of its GLP‑1 weight‑loss drug Wegovy, driving sizable gains in pharmaceutical equities.
4
Global markets brace for light year‑end volume and macro catalysts
Traders expect thin volumes heading into year‑end with attention on follow‑through to major deals (e.g., Nvidia–Groq) and any late macro surprises that could swing markets.
5
World Bank: global economy remained resilient in 2025 despite shocks
The World Bank assessed 2025 as more resilient than expected, citing strong activity offsetting conflicts, rising debt pressures, and climate shocks.
6
Oil prices volatile as inventories and demand outlook diverge
Oil benchmarks showed volatile moves amid mixed signals on inventories and demand, contributing to market uncertainty and affecting energy stocks.
7
European markets consolidate as investors await Santa Claus rally
European equity markets were mixed and described as entering consolidation ahead of the typical late‑December rally as investors position for year‑end flows.
8
Yen strength prompts comments on possible currency intervention in Japan
Japan’s finance officials signaled readiness to intervene after the yen’s moves, highlighting FX intervention risk for currency‑sensitive exporters and markets.
9
M&A and semiconductor partnerships remain key near‑term catalysts
Market watchers flagged M&A and strategic partnerships in semiconductors (such as Nvidia–Groq developments) as important catalysts for sector performance into 2026.
10
Antitrust and regulatory scrutiny shape tech and pharma strategic plans
Ongoing EU antitrust enforcement and US regulatory approvals (e.g., for GLP‑1 drugs) continue to influence corporate strategy and investor expectations across tech and healthcare sectors.}]}{