New Delhi, India : Global equities hit new peaks thanks to a surge in AI-related chip activity and upbeat business sentiment, but the rally has paused as investors await central-bank decisions. In the U.S., several major indexes reached highs, buoyed by a 13 % jump in Qualcomm Incorporated shares after announcing new AI server chips.
Despite the optimism, gold prices plunged more than 10 % from recent highs and slipped below US $4,000 per ounce — a sign that some investors may be shifting out of safe-havens.
Looking ahead, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank and other major central banks as they weigh interest-rate moves. Bond yields are softening, and currency markets are reacting to shifting risk sentiment.
Why this matters :
- A sustained pause after record highs may signal a consolidation phase for equity markets rather than an immediate pull-back.
- With gold falling sharply, investors may be reallocating into growth or risk assets, especially in the tech/AI sector.
- Central-bank policy will be a key driver of the next leg of the market cycle – any surprise could spark volatility.
