Macquarie Bullish on Gold: $3,000 Target for 2025

Macquarie Group forecasts gold to reach new heights in 2025, potentially challenging $3,000 an ounce. Analysts cite Fed rate cuts, central bank buying, and possible Chinese demand as key drivers. Despite a potential struggle in Q1 due to a strong dollar, gold is expected to rally thereafter, with ETF holdings showing room for growth.

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Bitcoin Crosses $100K as Crypto-Friendly Atkins Tapped for SEC

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Paul Atkins, a former SEC commissioner and cryptocurrency advocate, to chair the Securities and Exchange Commission. Atkins is known for favoring clearer, less restrictive regulations on cryptocurrencies and has criticized the Dodd-Frank legislation. His appointment signals a potential shift towards a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment, contrasting with the approach of outgoing SEC Chair Gary Gensler. The crypto industry has welcomed this nomination, with bitcoin surging above $100,000 following the announcement.

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Mexico's Minimum Wage Hike Undermined by Peso Depreciation

Mexico has announced a 12% increase in its minimum wage, raising it to 279 pesos per day starting January 1, 2025. Despite this nominal increase, the depreciation of the Mexican peso by 18% over the past year means that the wage effectively decreases in dollar terms, now equating to about $13.75 per day compared to $14.25 last year. This adjustment, decided by a commission including government, labor, and business representatives, aims to counteract domestic inflation, which is currently around 4.75%. However, the new wage still falls short when compared to U.S. minimum wages.

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Wall Street Bullish on US Economy for 2025

Major financial institutions are predicting strong economic growth for the US in 2025, with forecasts exceeding current consensus estimates. Wells Fargo leads with the highest S&P 500 target of 7,007, while Bank of America projects 2.4% GDP growth. Analysts expect a shift from tech dominance to broader market participation, favoring value stocks and GDP-sensitive sectors.

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Gold Holds Ground as Global Political Tensions Rise

Gold prices stabilized around $2,635 an ounce as investors evaluated political unrest in South Korea and France. Despite a 5% decline from October's record high, gold remains up 28% this year, supported by US monetary easing and central bank purchases. Upcoming US jobs data and the Federal Reserve's December meeting are key factors influencing gold's near-term outlook, with a potential 25-point rate cut expected.

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