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Wall Street Holds Steady as S&P 500 Hits Record Ahead of Christmas Break

Market Snapshot – December 24, 2025 Dow Jones Futures: Flat at 48,735 points S&P 500 Futures: Near 6,957 points, little changed after Tuesday’s record close Nasdaq 100 Futures: Slight dip of 0.1% to 25,796.5 points S&P 500 Index: Closed Tuesday at 6,909, its latest all-time high Key Drivers Robust economic growth continues to fuel investor optimism. Seasonal “Santa Claus rally” has lifted stocks for four consecutive sessions. Markets will close early today at 1 p.m. EST and remain shut tomorrow for Christmas Day. Traders remain cautious about inflation and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026. Quick Take Wall Street enters the holiday season on a high note, with the S&P 500 near the 7,000 mark and futures showing little movement. The shortened trading session means liquidity will be thin, amplifying small moves. Still, the overall tone remains upbeat, with investors betting that the year-end rally will carry into the final days of 2025.

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U.S. Increases Military Presence in the Middle East Amid Rising Tensions

 

The Pentagon has announced a significant boost in the U.S. military presence in the Middle East. This move includes deploying a fighter jet squadron and maintaining an aircraft carrier in the region. The decision comes as part of President Joe Biden’s commitment to bolster American defenses and support allies in the face of escalating tensions.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that additional ballistic missile defense-capable cruisers and destroyers will also be sent to the Middle East and Europe. This strategic shift aims to protect U.S. troops and allies, particularly Israel, from potential threats posed by Iran and its proxies.

The deployment follows recent violent incidents, including attacks by Israel on Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, which have heightened regional instability. The U.S. aims to deter further aggression and ensure the safety of its forces and allies.

This move underscores the U.S.'s ongoing commitment to maintaining stability and security in the Middle East, amidst a complex and volatile geopolitical landscape.


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