Stock Markets
Major U.S. stock indexes posted mixed results this week, with markets showing resilience despite ongoing economic uncertainties. The S&P 500 slipped on Friday after hitting a record high, as investors took some gains off the table after a strong week. Despite Friday’s pullback, the index managed to secure its second consecutive weekly gain.
The main stock market index of United States, the US500, fell to 6465 points on August 15, 2025, losing 0.05% from the previous session. Over the past month, the index has climbed 3.22% and is up 16.40% compared to the same time last year. The technology-heavy Nasdaq has been particularly strong, with stocks higher Friday, leading the three major averages to post winning weeks.
Market volatility remained relatively contained as expectations for lower interest rates continue driving the major indexes to all-time highs. The investor risk appetite showed signs of stabilization following the turbulent periods seen earlier in the month.
Value stocks continued to show relative strength compared to growth names, particularly in sectors benefiting from potential policy shifts and interest rate expectations. Financial sector performance remained solid, supported by expectations of a favorable interest rate environment.
U.S. Economy
This week’s economic landscape was shaped by key inflation and employment data releases. Inflation Rate in the United States remained unchanged at 2.70 percent in July. The stability in inflation readings provided some comfort to markets that had been concerned about persistent price pressures.
Core inflation metrics showed continued moderation, with Core CPI (ex. Food and Energy) at 0.2% monthly and 3.2% annually, indicating that underlying price pressures remain elevated but are showing signs of stabilization.
On the employment front, Unemployment Rate in the United States increased to 4.20 percent in July from 4.10 percent in June of 2025. This modest uptick in unemployment reflects a cooling labor market that continues to normalize from historically tight conditions.
The combination of stable inflation and a slightly softening labor market has reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve may have more flexibility in its monetary policy approach in the coming months.
Metals and Mining
Precious metals markets showed mixed performance this week, with gold facing some consolidation pressure after recent gains. Gold fell to 3,335.60 USD/t.oz on August 15, 2025, down 0.00% from the previous day. Over the past month, Gold’s price has fallen 0.34%, but it is still 33.01% higher than a year ago.
The gold market has been experiencing sideways trading patterns, with gold prices mostly sideways. No bearish continuation toward the green box area and no strong recovery following recent volatility. Technical analysts note that gold remains in a consolidation phase after significant year-to-date gains.
Silver and other precious metals have faced similar headwinds, with industrial metals showing more sensitivity to economic growth concerns and global trade dynamics.
The strength of the U.S. dollar continues to provide headwinds for precious metals, though geopolitical uncertainties and central bank policies remain supportive factors for the sector. Gold maintains its appeal as a portfolio diversifier, offering low correlation to risk assets, no third-party or geopolitical risks, relatively low volatility, and a deep and liquid market in an environment of ongoing economic uncertainty.
Energy and Oil
Energy markets have been influenced by a combination of supply dynamics and demand concerns. Crude oil prices last year were dragged down by weak Chinese demand and a supply glut — market watchers expect prices to remain pressured in 2025.
Oil price movements this week reflected ongoing concerns about global economic growth and energy demand, particularly from major consuming nations. Geopolitical factors continue to provide support, though the overall trend remains influenced by fundamental supply-demand dynamics.
Natural gas markets have shown some volatility, with regional price differences reflecting infrastructure constraints and seasonal demand patterns. The transition to cleaner energy sources continues to influence long-term market dynamics, while short-term pricing remains sensitive to weather patterns and storage levels.
World Markets
European equity markets showed resilience this week, with major indexes benefiting from expectations of continued monetary accommodation by the European Central Bank. Investor sentiment improved on hopes that inflation pressures are moderating, potentially allowing for more aggressive rate cuts.
Japanese markets faced headwinds from currency movements and speculation about Bank of Japan policy adjustments. The yen’s strength against the dollar continued to weigh on export-oriented companies, while domestic policy expectations remained a key focus for investors.
Chinese markets showed signs of stabilization, with government stimulus measures and economic support policies providing some foundation for equity performance. However, ongoing concerns about property sector challenges and global trade dynamics continue to influence investor sentiment.
The Week Ahead
The coming week will feature several important economic releases that could influence market direction:
Key Topics to Watch:
• Federal Reserve meeting minutes from the latest policy session
• Regional Federal Reserve manufacturing surveys
• Initial jobless claims data
• Consumer confidence indicators
• Flash PMI readings for manufacturing and services sectors
• Housing market data including existing and new home sales
• Energy inventory reports
• Key earnings releases from major corporations
Market participants will be particularly focused on any signals from Federal Reserve communications regarding the future path of monetary policy, given the current economic backdrop of moderating inflation and a cooling labor market. Additionally, ongoing geopolitical developments and global trade dynamics will remain key factors influencing market sentiment across all asset classes.