BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda said the central bank is likely to keep raising interest rates if growth and inflation evolve as forecast, citing confidence in a sustained wage–price cycle as Japan exits its deflationary era.

Gold +2%, Silver +6% on geopolitical turmoil. Oil edges up; Nikkei & Kospi hit records. MSFT & TSLA dip.

Australian economists warn inflation will remain stubbornly high, raising the risk the RBA resumes rate hikes as early as February. Markets now price a growing chance of higher borrowing costs in 2026 amid firm housing, services and labour pressures.

Energy stocks offer high yields! Traders eye these 2 picks for steady returns amid market volatility.

China’s services PMI eased to 52.0 in December, signalling slower growth as export demand weakened and job cuts persisted. Input costs rose but firms cut prices amid intense competition, even as business confidence improved toward 2026.

UK births to fall below deaths by 2026; migration key for growth. Rising unemployment & inflation concerns loom.

Gold and silver on fire in Asia trade, Monday, January 5, 2026 The precious metals have benefitted from the Trump kidnap raid on Venezuela