Mon Jan 05 12:04:34 UTC 2026: Summary:

The article reports on the global market reaction to the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. While oil prices dipped slightly due to existing plentiful supply and uncertainty surrounding the future of Venezuelan oil production, precious metals like gold and silver surged as investors sought safe havens. Asian stock markets rallied, driven by tech stocks, with the Nikkei reaching a near-record high. The article also highlights upcoming U.S. economic reports that will influence the Federal Reserve’s next meeting.

News Article:

Markets React Calmly to Maduro Capture; Asian Stocks Surge, Gold Rises

Bangkok – January 5, 2026 – Global financial markets exhibited a mixed reaction to the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro over the weekend. While geopolitical uncertainty triggered a surge in safe-haven assets like gold and silver, Asian stock markets rallied, particularly in the tech sector.

Oil prices initially rose slightly but ultimately dipped, with U.S. benchmark crude down 36 cents to $56.96 per barrel and Brent crude falling 34 cents to $60.41 per barrel. Analysts attribute the dip to existing oversupply and the long road ahead for Venezuela’s oil industry, even under new leadership.

Asian stock markets saw significant gains, with the Nikkei 225 in Tokyo jumping 3% to 51,832.80, nearing its record high. South Korea’s Kospi also surged to a record high.

“Investors are happy to own risk, but they want insurance in the drawer,” commented Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management, reflecting the market sentiment of confidence tempered by geopolitical hedging.

European markets also saw modest gains, with Germany’s DAX, France’s CAC 40, and Britain’s FTSE 100 all rising.

Looking ahead, investors are closely watching upcoming U.S. economic reports, including data on the services sector and job market, which will inform the Federal Reserve’s upcoming meeting.

The long-term impact of the U.S. action in Venezuela remains uncertain, with markets closely monitoring developments.

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