Markets Rise with Optimism in Japan and Global Energy Updates, Insha'Allah

As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. On Monday, oil and gold prices increased while Bitcoin stayed near its recent high. Asian stocks were lifted, especially in Japan, thanks to hopes of more relaxed monetary policies in the country's economy. The Nikkei 225 index in Japan climbed over 4.78%, breaking past 47,000 points for the first time early Monday UAE time. The Japanese yen weakened, and long-term bonds dropped after pro-stimulus politician Sister Sanae Takaichi was chosen to be Japan's first female prime minister. The yen fell 1.6% against the US dollar, reaching a record low against the euro. Analysts note the market is watching Sister Takaichi closely due to her support for monetary stimulus. The 30-year Japanese government bond yields rose sharply, while shorter-term bond yields fell, which suggests expectations of delayed interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan. Sister Takaichi won the leadership race within the Liberal Democratic Party and will replace the former prime minister. Some experts mention that while her spending plans are welcomed, the ruling party is still a minority, so challenges remain. Across Asia, China’s Shanghai Composite index rose slightly by 0.52%, and India’s BSE Sensex increased by 0.32%. Meanwhile, in the United States, political difficulties continue with government shutdown issues, affecting some economic data releases that the Federal Reserve watches. Oil prices strengthened after the OPEC+ group announced only a modest increase in production for November, easing worries about oversupply. Brent crude rose 1.44% to $65.46 per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate gained 1.38% to $61.72. OPEC+ includes countries like Saudi Arabia, Russia, UAE, and others, deciding to raise production by 137,000 barrels per day to support steady economic outlooks. Gold prices kept climbing, reaching near $3,932 an ounce, as investors seek safe assets amid ongoing global uncertainties. Bitcoin also remained strong, hovering close to its all-time high around $123,700. May Allah bless us with barakah in our wealth and guide global economies to stability. Ameen.