Five things to watch in markets in the week ahead

The Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) saw a notable rise as gold prices reached record highs, driven by concerns over a potential U.S. government shutdown. This surge in gold is significant as it reflects investors' flight to safety during uncertain economic times, highlighting the precious metal's role as a stable investment. With the ongoing political tensions, many are turning to gold as a hedge against volatility, making this trend important for both the market and individual investors.

London stocks experienced a notable rise today, driven primarily by gains in the financial sector. This positive momentum comes at a time when concerns about a potential US government shutdown loom, highlighting the resilience of the UK market amidst global uncertainties. Investors are optimistic about the financials, which could indicate a strong performance in the coming weeks.

Former President Trump has highlighted a surge in auto plant construction in the U.S., suggesting a revitalization of the industry. However, a closer look at carmakers' actions reveals a more complex picture, with many companies facing challenges that could impact their long-term plans. This discrepancy is significant as it reflects broader economic trends and the ongoing evolution of the automotive sector, which is crucial for job creation and technological advancement.

The Bank of Israel has decided to maintain its current interest rates, but it has raised concerns about the country's increasing isolation on the global stage. This decision reflects the central bank's cautious approach amid geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. The implications of this isolation could affect Israel's economic stability and growth, making it a critical issue for both policymakers and citizens.

The dollar is currently retreating as it consolidates its earlier gains, particularly in light of the ongoing risk of a US government shutdown. This situation is significant because it reflects the uncertainty in the markets and the potential impact on the economy. Investors are closely monitoring developments, as a shutdown could lead to disruptions in government services and affect economic stability.

Israel's stock market closed lower today, with the TA 35 index dropping by 0.10%. This decline reflects ongoing economic concerns and market volatility, which can impact investor confidence and future trading activities. Understanding these trends is crucial for investors and analysts as they navigate the complexities of the financial landscape.

The governor of Brazil's central bank has expressed optimism about the country's economic resilience, highlighting signs of stability despite global challenges. This perspective is crucial as it suggests that Brazil may navigate through economic uncertainties better than expected, which could bolster investor confidence and support growth initiatives.

Greece's stock market closed on a positive note, with the Athens General Composite index rising by 0.13%. This uptick reflects growing investor confidence and could signal a recovery in the Greek economy, which is crucial for both local businesses and international investors looking for opportunities in the region.

Chancellor Reeves has issued a warning about the tough choices ahead, attributing the challenges to international events and the long-term damage inflicted on the economy. This matters because it signals potential tax increases and difficult decisions that could impact citizens and businesses alike, highlighting the ongoing economic struggles.

Cannabis stocks have seen a significant surge following former President Trump's endorsement of cannabidiol for senior healthcare. This endorsement is crucial as it highlights the potential benefits of cannabis products for older adults, a demographic that often faces various health challenges. The market's positive reaction reflects growing acceptance and interest in cannabis as a viable healthcare option, which could lead to increased investment and innovation in the industry.

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq have seen gains as investors remain optimistic despite recent hawkish comments from the Federal Reserve. This rise indicates that market participants are looking beyond potential interest rate hikes and are focused on the upcoming clarity regarding a government shutdown. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they can significantly impact market stability and investor confidence.

A recent Reuters poll indicates that Egypt is likely to cut interest rates by 100 basis points this Thursday, a move that could stimulate economic growth and provide relief to borrowers. Lowering interest rates can encourage spending and investment, which is crucial for the country's recovery. This decision reflects a proactive approach to managing the economy amidst ongoing challenges.

President Trump has reignited his threat to impose 100% tariffs on movies not made in the United States, claiming that the American film-making industry has been 'stolen' by foreign countries. This move could have significant implications for the film industry, potentially raising costs for consumers and affecting international collaborations.

Ormat Technologies has reached a significant milestone as its stock price hit a 52-week high of 95.39 USD. This achievement reflects the company's strong performance and investor confidence in its renewable energy solutions. As the demand for sustainable energy sources continues to grow, Ormat's success is a positive indicator for the industry and could attract more investors looking for opportunities in green technology.

The Trump administration has implemented stricter export controls targeting Chinese companies, particularly affecting subsidiaries of entities that have been blacklisted by the US government. This move is significant as it reflects ongoing tensions between the US and China, impacting trade relations and potentially hindering the operations of affected companies. The tightening of these controls could lead to further economic repercussions and escalate the trade conflict.

In a recent interview, Honeywell's Energy and Sustainability Solutions President & CEO Ken West emphasized the growing demand for energy, predicting that the world will require more power in the future. This insight is crucial as it highlights the need for innovative solutions and sustainable practices to meet increasing energy needs, making it a significant topic for businesses and policymakers alike.

Carnival Corporation has reported a record profit of $2 billion for the third quarter of 2025, marking a significant milestone for the cruise line industry. This impressive financial performance not only highlights the company's recovery post-pandemic but also reflects strong consumer demand for travel experiences. Additionally, Carnival raised its guidance for the upcoming quarters, indicating confidence in sustained growth. This news is crucial as it signals a robust rebound in tourism and could positively impact related sectors.

CorVel Corp's stock has reached a 52-week low, dropping to $77.64, which raises concerns among investors about the company's financial health and market performance. This decline could impact investor confidence and may lead to further scrutiny of CorVel's business strategies and future prospects.