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Global Markets Start 2026 Higher on AI Momentum as Europe Sets Records

Markets see a January rate hold as likely at the Federal Reserve.

Overview

  • London’s FTSE 100 touched 10,000 for the first time and the STOXX 600 hit a new peak to open the year.
  • U.S. stock futures advanced, with S&P 500 contracts up about 0.6% and Nasdaq 100 up roughly 1.1% in early trade.
  • Gold and silver extended last year’s surge, with gold up about 1.6% and silver rising roughly 4% in early Friday dealings.
  • Baidu said its AI chip unit Kunlunxin confidentially filed to list in Hong Kong, sending its U.S.-listed shares up around 12% premarket.
  • CME FedWatch showed roughly an 85% probability of no January rate change, as investors track an upcoming Fed leadership transition.