January Week 1 Recap: Markets, Bitcoin, and Oil Heating Up

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Traders, how are you? Marcello here, kicking off 2025 with a bang. The markets are alive, Bitcoin is partying like it’s 1999, and oil prices are creeping up as geopolitical tensions and energy demand collide. But it’s not all rosy—there’s some wild stuff happening globally that you need to keep an eye on. Let’s dive in.

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U.S. Markets: Starting the Year in the Green

The Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ all posted gains last week, and guess what? They’re already in the green for the year. Here’s the breakdown:

Dow Jones: +0.80%, closing at 42,732.
S&P 500: +1.26%, ending at 5,942.
NASDAQ: +1.77%, climbing to 19,621.

The optimism comes despite some clouds on the horizon—rising interest on U.S. debt, red-hot inflation data, and a housing market that refuses to cool off. But hey, it’s all about the ride, right?

Global Markets: Mixed Signals Everywhere

Around the world, markets are doing their own thing:

Europe: Russia’s MICEX led with a +2.47% gain, while Paris stumbled at -1%. Spain eked out +1.04%.
Latin America: Argentina’s Merval skyrocketed +5.87%. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Bovespa sank -1.46%.
Asia: South Korea’s KOSPI climbed +1.54%, but China’s Shanghai Composite tanked -5.87%.

What’s happening in China? Slowing growth, deflationary pressures, and shaky consumer confidence. Meanwhile, South Korea is finding some strength despite a tragic aviation disaster that claimed over 100 lives.

Bitcoin: Still Flexing

Crypto fans, you’re going to love this. Bitcoin gained +3.30% last week to settle at $97,538. It even hit an all-time high of $108,309 in December. The rally keeps riding on institutional inflows and whispers of more regulatory clarity under Trump’s pro-crypto policies.

Key Takeaway: If you’re not already in Bitcoin, now might be the time to at least dip a toe in. Institutions are playing hardball, and retail might be left holding the bag if they wait too long.

Oil & Commodities: The Energy Comeback

Oil prices are climbing fast:

U.S. Crude: +4.75% to $73.96.
Brent Crude: +3.28% to $76.61.

Why? Ukraine stopped renewing Russian gas transit deals, cutting off a major energy pipeline. Add to that rising geopolitical tensions, and you’ve got a recipe for higher prices. Oh, and gold? It’s +0.72% at $2,640, marking its best year since 1979. Silver isn’t far behind at +0.74%.

Corporate Drama: Tesla, Apple, and Rivian

Tesla: Delivered fewer vehicles in 2024 for the first time in a decade, dropping -6.08% midweek. Then, like a Tesla on autopilot, it surged +8.22% after announcing record sales in China.
Rivian: Blew up (in a good way) with a +24.45% surge on meeting vehicle delivery targets.
Apple: Started the year with a -2.62% slump, facing a tough crowd in China as Huawei’s Mate series eats into market share.

Wild Headlines: EV Takeover and Arctic Surprises

Did you know 88.9% of cars sold in Norway last year were EVs? They’re practically running on electrons over there. Meanwhile, Arctic ice levels are 26% larger than in 2012. So much for all the global warming chatter, right? Just saying.

Final Thoughts: Buckle Up for 2025

This year’s starting off hot, with opportunities in crypto, energy, and global equities. But stay sharp—the markets are jittery, and volatility could strike anytime. Let me know what you think: Are you bullish on Bitcoin? Worried about China? And remember, folks, the Preppers were right.

Stay informed, stay ready, and I’ll see you next week!