Despite a sluggish last couple of weeks, all three major indexes finished 2025 with gains, marking their third consecutive year in the black. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) added 13%, the Nasdaq Composite (IXIC) rose 20.4%, and the S&P 500 Index (SPX) tacked on 16.4%. Each benchmark also rose for the third-straight quarter despite tech volatility during the past couple months, though the tech sector had a stellar 12 months amid AI-related growth.
Narrowing in on this week, the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) December meeting minutes were in focus on Tuesday, while silver prices hit more record highs amid a rollercoaster week for precious metals. The market was closed for New Year's Day on Thursday, and stocks are mixed at this point, following four-straight daily losses.
Companies Making AI Moves
Plenty of businesses announced new developments earlier this week, to finish out the year. Softbank is in advanced talks to acquire DigitalBridge Group (DBRG) for $4 billion in an effort to expand its AI infrastructure, while Meta Platforms (META) is acquiring Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup. Elsewhere, data center name, Applied Digital (APLD) announced plans to spin off of its cloud business, combining with Ekso Bionics (EKSO) to create "ChronoScale." In similar news, China-based AI giant Baidu (BIDU) also declared a spin-off of its semiconductor unit, Kunlunxin, with plans to list it in Hong Kong.
Kicking Off 2026
Tech dominated this year's most lucrative options plays, but will high expectations for AI continue? Uranium producer Cameco (CCJ) has benefited from the increased demand for alternative energy sources, and is one of Schaeffer's top stock picks for 2026. In the meantime, keep an eye on these SPX levels after the benchmark's recent record peak.
