S&P futures are up +0.2% and pointing to a slightly higher open. Asian markets were mixed with Japan and Hong Kong lower. New Zealand posted modest gains after a surprise RBNZ rate cut. Mainland China and South Korea remained closed for holidays. European markets are all firmer in early trades. Gold prices surpassed $4,000/ounce for the first time, driven by haven demand amid economic, fiscal, and geopolitical uncertainties. Year-to-date, gold has delivered over +50% returns, supported by concerns over potential market shocks, a possible US government shutdown, and expectations of further Federal Reserve monetary easing. Bullion-backed ETFs experienced their largest monthly inflows in over three years in September.
Companies Mentioned: Exxon Mobil, Intel, NVIDIA, Confluent