Pill Version of Wegovy Is Approved for Use in the U.S.

Gold prices have surged above $4,500 per ounce for the first time, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly between the U.S. and Venezuela, alongside rising concerns in Eastern Europe and frictions between China and Japan.

The S&P 500 index reached a record high on December 23, 2025, closing at an all-time peak, as reported by Bloomberg Television. This milestone was achieved despite thin trading volume, indicating strong investor confidence in the market's resilience.

Crude oil futures experienced a slight decline as the U.S. intensified its actions against Venezuela, particularly focusing on cutting off the country's oil trade and increasing pressure on Nicolás Maduro's regime. This comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Ukraine, which continue to influence market dynamics.

The U.S. economy experienced a robust growth of 4.3% in the third quarter of 2025, surpassing previous expectations as consumer spending remained strong. This growth indicates a significant recovery trajectory following earlier economic challenges.

Consumer sentiment in the U.S. has declined for the fifth consecutive month in December, driven by persistent concerns regarding job security and overall economic conditions, as reported by a monthly survey.

Demand for U.S. durable goods experienced a decline in October, as reported by the Commerce Department, marking a shift after two consecutive months of increases. This downturn highlights potential weaknesses in consumer spending and manufacturing sectors.

Treasury yields increased following the release of robust U.S. GDP data, which indicated stronger-than-expected economic growth in the third quarter. This rise in yields reflects investor confidence in the economy's performance.

The average monthly car payment in the U.S. has exceeded $750, a significant increase attributed to a 33% rise in new car prices since 2020. This trend has led consumers to extend their loan terms to nearly 100 months, reflecting a shift in financing behavior as buyers seek to manage higher costs.