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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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Hospitals Overwhelmed as New Virus Spreads in China

Hospitals across northern China are facing unprecedented pressure as a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) overwhelms healthcare systems. The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms, has led to overcrowded emergency rooms and intensive care units, reminiscent of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

HMPV, a respiratory virus discovered in 2001, typically causes mild symptoms such as cough, fever, and congestion. However, this winter has seen a significant spike in infections, particularly among children and the elderly. Health authorities are implementing emergency measures to manage the outbreak, but the sheer volume of cases is straining resources.

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that while the virus is not new, the current outbreak is more severe than usual. Officials are urging the public to take precautions such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.

Despite the challenges, experts remain optimistic that the situation can be managed with coordinated efforts and public cooperation. The global community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping to prevent a repeat of the widespread impact seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the world watches, the resilience of China's healthcare system and the effectiveness of its response will be put to the test once again.



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