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Tuesday, December 30

Noteworthy macro moves today: Copper +2.7%. Gold +1.1%. Silver +4.8%. 

Global equity markets are trading mixed as investors react to ongoing economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the Federal Reserve's upcoming meeting minutes and inflation concerns linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and other global issues.

In the U.S., major indexes are under pressure, with notable declines in AI stocks contributing to a cautious sentiment ahead of the Fed's meeting minutes release later today. This may provide insights into future interest rate cuts amid fluctuating inflation expectations.

Meanwhile, European markets are performing well, buoyed by gains in the mining and banking sectors as traders engage in buying ahead of New Year holidays. This reflects a generally optimistic outlook despite thin trading volumes across the region.

iShares Silver Trust (SLV) [+3.8%]
iShares Silver Trust (SLV) has seen a notable price increase of 3.8% in pre-market trading, reflecting a broader recovery in silver prices, which rebounded after a significant decline on Monday. Year-to-date, silver has rallied substantially, marking its strongest performance since 1978, driven by strong industrial demand, particularly from solar panels and electric vehicles. The global silver market is anticipated to face its seventh consecutive year of deficit in 2025, with cumulative shortfalls expected to reach 800 million ounces since 2021. Social media discussions highlight active trading in SLV, with posts noting recent price movements and volatility. Notably, silver futures have also rebounded sharply following options activity that suggested buying interest. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and supply concerns, particularly related to China's export restrictions, are contributing to ongoing market volatility.

SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) [+1.1%]
SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) has increased by 1.1% in pre-market trading, reflecting a broader recovery in precious metals. Spot gold has risen by 1.6%, reaching $4,401, while spot silver has surged by 5.5% to $76.10. This rebound follows a period of significant declines attributed to year-end profit-taking and heightened margin requirements by the CME across various metals contracts. Recent geopolitical tensions, particularly involving U.S.-Iran relations and conflicts in Yemen, have spurred safe-haven demand for gold. Additionally, concerns regarding potential supply disruptions in crude oil markets may further bolster gold's appeal as a protective asset. The strong correlation between gold and silver prices suggests that movements in silver are also influencing GLD's performance.

BIDU | +5.2% | +19.6B
Baidu Inc | Interactive Media & Services
Baidu Inc (BIDU) has seen a notable increase in price, rising approximately 4.9% since Monday. Social media activity highlights that the stock is up 8.6% in Hong Kong, trading at nearly a 5% premium to its American Depositary Receipts (ADRs). Recent posts indicate a bullish sentiment, with one user noting a bullish engulfing candle for BIDU over the last five days and a 4% gap up in price this morning. Conversations from last night suggested a significant rally might be forthcoming for the stock.

NIO | +3.4% | +388.3M
NIO Inc | Automobile Manufacturers
NIO Inc. has seen a notable rise in its stock price, attributed to various developments highlighted on social media. The company achieved its 40,000th delivery of the third-generation ES8, just 11 days after reaching the 30,000th milestone. Concurrently, NIO's L60/L90 vehicles received a significant software update that introduced end-to-end urban navigation assistance. Additionally, the network of battery swap stations has expanded to 3,666, with 1,009 located on highways, alongside 4,849 supercharger stations and 27,642 charging piles. Trading activity also revealed a return of 670,000 short positions, suggesting a decrease in short interest. Notably, the official launch of NIO Firefly in Austria was celebrated as part of the company's ongoing expansion efforts.

MOH | +2.6% | +256.0M
Molina Healthcare Inc | Managed Health Care
Molina Healthcare shares rose following positive commentary from investor Mike Burry, who stated that the company is well-positioned to maintain profitability in its Medicaid operations through 2026. This stands in contrast to competitors expected to face losses. Burry highlighted Molina's favorable financial outlook despite broader industry pressures negatively affecting stock performance. He also noted the potential for Molina to become an acquisition target if its stock price remains at current levels. This commentary underscores the company's resilience amid the regulatory and operational challenges confronting the managed care sector.

PBR | +1.4% | +886.8M
Petroleo Brasileiro SA Petrobras | Integrated Oil & Gas
DOF Group has secured a four-year contract valued at $150 million with Petroleo Brasileiro SA Petrobras in Brazil. This agreement is expected to enhance operational capabilities within the region, reflecting a significant commitment from both parties. The announcement was made approximately six hours ago, marking a notable development for Petrobras. Additionally, the iShares MSCI Brazil ETF has increased, suggesting a broader positive sentiment in the market that may also influence Petrobras's performance.

RPRX | +1.0% | +241.4M
Royalty Pharma PLC | Pharmaceuticals
Royalty Pharma PLC has announced the acquisition of the remaining royalty interest in Roche's Evrysdi for $240 million, with potential additional sales-based milestones of up to $60 million. This transaction secures full ownership of a tiered royalty structure ranging from 8% to 16%, contingent on sales levels. Evrysdi, a treatment for spinal muscular atrophy, generated approximately $1.9 billion in sales during 2024, marking an 18% year-over-year growth. Analyst consensus anticipates that sales will reach $2.9 billion by 2030. Enhanced royalty payments for Royalty Pharma are expected to commence in the first quarter of 2026, based on sales figures from the fourth quarter of 2025.

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