World shares near record highs as metals surge continues

Global equity indexes rose to all-time peaks while precious metals climbed sharply; markets were watching U.S. bank earnings, Federal Reserve speakers and a possible Supreme Court ruling on tariffs.

Global stock indexes rose to all-time peaks on Wednesday while traders noted sharp gains in precious metals and elevated copper prices. Markets were balancing policy and geopolitical concerns with a busy near-term calendar. U.S. corporate earnings, several Federal Reserve speakers and a possible U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tariffs were due later in the day. Regional developments in Japan and China also influenced sentiment. Key facts: - Broad share indexes in Asia and Europe reached record highs while U.S. share futures were about 0.2% lower. - Silver traded above $90 per ounce for the first time and gold hit record levels; copper was at unprecedented levels. - Japanese reports said Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi may call a snap lower house election for Feb. 8; the Nikkei rose more than 1% and the yen fell to about 159.29 per dollar with officials warning they might intervene. - China stocks fell about 0.4% after exchanges tightened margin requirements, and China reported a near $1.2 trillion trade surplus for 2025. - Oil eased from recent highs, with Brent last near $64.90 a barrel. - The article mentions upcoming U.S. bank results and that JPMorgan reported profit above estimates though its shares fell on weaker investment-banking revenue; it also notes Saks Global filed for bankruptcy protection. Summary: Equities reached fresh highs even as metals and some currencies showed notable moves, and oil eased slightly. Market attention is focused on bank earnings, Federal Reserve commentary and the possible Supreme Court tariff decision for near-term direction. Undetermined at this time.