Markets Juggle Shutdown Fears, Gold Records and Tech Surges

Markets are starting the week with a sharp contrast, gold holding near record highs as investors seek safety, while EV and chip stocks fuel risk-on momentum. With the U.S. shutdown underway and AI-driven corporate moves in the spotlight, traders face a mix of caution and opportunity across global markets.

Introduction

Global markets are navigating a high-volatility environment this week, with record gold prices, political uncertainty in the U.S., and fresh momentum in technology and EV stocks. While investors seek safety in precious metals, risk appetite is also being fueled by corporate deals, AI-driven innovation, and strong performances in Asia’s chipmakers.

Gold Shines as Shutdown Begins

Gold prices continued to hover at record highs near $3,900/oz as the U.S. government officially entered shutdown mode. With traders betting on rate cuts in the months ahead, demand for safe-haven assets remains elevated. Silver and other precious metals tracked the rally, while mining shares gained traction globally.

EV and Chip Stocks Lead Risk-On Sentiment

Despite political noise, risk assets found support:

• China’s EV sector rallied as investors looked ahead to Tesla’s Q3 delivery numbers. Leading players like BYD and XPeng posted solid gains.
• Asian chipmakers surged after reports of major OpenAI-linked deals, lifting Samsung, SK Hynix, and SoftBank. Korea’s KOSPI hit a record high as tech momentum overshadowed inflation worries.
• In the U.S., Intel shares spiked on reports of a potential AMD manufacturing partnership, reinforcing chip sector optimism.

Corporate Moves Fuel Market Buzz

• OpenAI’s valuation jumped to $500 billion in its latest private share sale, underscoring the AI investment boom.
• BofA added a European stock to its Q4 EMEA Top Ideas list, signaling confidence in select value plays despite macro headwinds.
• Yahoo is reportedly close to selling AOL for $1.4 billion, while GoodRx surged on speculation of a TrumpRx partnership.

Oil and Commodities Stay in Focus

Oil prices ticked higher after sliding to four-month lows, as traders balanced U.S. inventory data with reports of potential OPEC+ supply increases. Australian critical mineral stocks also jumped after reports of potential U.S. investment, further highlighting the strategic focus on energy security.

Summary

Markets are split between defensive hedges and high-growth plays. Gold’s record highs underline global caution, while EV, chip, and AI-linked stocks highlight ongoing risk appetite. Traders should watch upcoming U.S. jobs data, Tesla’s deliveries, and OPEC+ signals as the next big catalysts.