Global markets delivered a mixed but energetic start to 2026, with European equities rallying, U.S. indices wavering, and Asia posting strong gains. Investors entered the new year balancing optimism around artificial intelligence, shifting interest‑rate expectations, and lingering geopolitical and fiscal uncertainties.

European Markets Rally; FTSE 100 Breaks 10,000 for the First Time
European stocks surged, led by technology and industrials.
The FTSE 100 crossed the 10,000‑point mark for the first time in history, a symbolic milestone reflecting renewed confidence in the UK’s large‑cap sector. Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC 40 also posted gains, supported by upbeat sentiment across the Eurozone.

Analysts attributed the rally to easing inflation pressures and expectations that the European Central Bank may adopt a more accommodative stance later in the year.

Wall Street Opens 2026 on Uneven Footing
U.S. markets showed a more cautious tone.
The Dow Jones edged higher while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 fluctuated between small gains and losses as investors reassessed the outlook for interest rates and corporate earnings.

Tech stocks continued to dominate market narratives, with AI‑linked companies driving much of the sector’s momentum. Meanwhile, precious metals resumed their rally, with gold and silver benefiting from safe‑haven flows and speculative interest.

Tesla Loses EV Crown to China’s BYD
One of the day’s most notable corporate stories came from the electric‑vehicle sector:
Tesla’s global sales fell to their lowest level since 2022, allowing China’s BYD to overtake it as the world’s top EV manufacturer.
The shift underscores intensifying competition in the EV market and growing pressure on Tesla’s margins amid slowing demand and rising geopolitical tensions.

Leadership Change at Berkshire Hathaway
In a historic transition, Greg Abel officially took over as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, marking the end of Warren Buffett’s legendary tenure.
Markets reacted cautiously, with Berkshire shares dipping slightly as investors digested the implications of the leadership change.

Saks Global Prepares for Bankruptcy
Retail turbulence continued as Saks Global reportedly prepared to file for bankruptcy after missing a major debt payment.
The company’s CEO stepped down, signaling deeper structural challenges in the luxury retail sector as consumer spending patterns shift.

Asian Markets Post Strong Gains
Asian indices delivered some of the strongest performances of the day.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index jumped more than 2%, while South Korea’s KOSPI and Taiwan’s TAIEX also posted robust gains.
Investors in the region appear increasingly optimistic about a rebound in tech manufacturing and AI‑related exports.

Commodities and Bonds: A Cautious Repricing
U.S. Treasury yields rose as bond markets reassessed growth expectations for 2026.
Precious metals extended their upward trend, with silver continuing its strong multi‑month rally despite recent volatility.