29 Jan

FOMC expectedly holds rates steady. Oil surges to a 4-month high

By JustMarkets 

On Wednesday, the US stock indices traded mixed. By the end of the day, the Dow Jones (US30) rose by 0.03%, while the S&P 500 (US500) edged down by 0.01%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (US100) closed higher by 0.32%. Investors adopted a wait-and-see approach ahead of major tech earnings and the anticipated Fed decision to maintain interest rates. At its January 2026 meeting, the US Federal Reserve left the federal funds rate unchanged in the 3.50-3.75% range, fully meeting market expectations. The decision follows three consecutive cuts last year that brought borrowing costs to their lowest level since 2022. However, a split emerged within the Committee: Governors Stephen Miran and Christopher Waller voted against the hold, advocating for an additional 25 bps cut. The regulator reaffirmed that future decisions will depend on incoming macroeconomic data, updated expectations, and the balance of risks. During the press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that the US economy enters 2026 on a “solid footing,” stating that current rate levels are appropriate for making progress toward the Fed’s dual goals of price stability and maximum employment.

The Canadian dollar (CAD) strengthened to 1.35 against the US dollar, reaching a sixteen-month high as markets reacted to the Bank of Canada’s latest monetary policy decision and signals. Although US tariffs and ongoing trade uncertainty continue to pressure the Canadian economy (dampening exports, investment, and labor reallocation), the Bank of Canada maintains a relatively constructive macroeconomic outlook. The regulator expects moderate GDP growth of approximately 1.1% in 2026 and 1.5% in 2027, estimating that excess capacity will generally offset tariff-related cost increases, keeping inflation near the 2% target.

European equity markets mostly declined on Wednesday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) fell by 0.29%, France’s CAC 40 (FR40) dropped by 1.06%, Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) lost 1.10%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) finished down 0.52%. The primary pressure came from the luxury goods sector. LVMH shares plummeted 7.3% following weak financial results, dragging the entire segment down. CEO Bernard Arnault pointed to a challenging market environment and warned that 2026 would likely be a difficult year for the industry. Investors also remained cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy announcement.
The Swiss franc (CHF) strengthened above 0.77 against the US dollar, reaching its highest level in ten years amid a global shift toward safe-haven assets and a simultaneous aversion to other traditional “haven” currencies. Despite the franc’s strength putting downward pressure on Switzerland’s already subdued inflation, expectations for further rate cuts from the Swiss National Bank (SNB) remain limited. The SNB’s policy rate has been held at 0% for six consecutive months, with central bank officials repeatedly emphasizing a cautious stance regarding a potential return to negative interest rate territory.

Platinum (XPT) prices rose toward $2,700 per ounce, returning to record levels fueled by persistent supply constraints and robust investment demand. An additional growth factor is the narrowness of the platinum market and its relatively low price compared to other precious metals, making even moderate physical purchases capable of significantly impacting price action. The structural annual supply deficit remains the key fundamental driver. Production in South Africa, which accounts for about 70% of global output, continues to face underinvestment, infrastructure disruptions, and logistical constraints. Supply risks could also intensify in Canada, another major producer, amid threats of 100% tariffs should trade agreements with China proceed.

WTI crude oil prices rose toward $64 per barrel, hitting a four-month high due to rising geopolitical risks following tough new US statements directed at Iran. President Donald Trump warned of possible further strikes while simultaneously calling for Tehran to negotiate, heightening market fears of potential disruptions to Iranian oil supplies. Fundamental data also supported the bullish move. According to the EIA report, US crude oil inventories fell by 2.3 million barrels last week, contrary to market expectations of a 1.75 million barrel increase, further strengthening the upside momentum.

Asian markets traded with mixed dynamics yesterday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) rose by 0.05%, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) edged down 0.04%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) surged 2.58%, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) posted a negative result of 0.08%.

On Thursday, the Australian dollar (AUD) climbed above 0.70 USD, hitting a three-year high amid a gold rally and growing expectations for monetary policy tightening. All four of Australia’s major banks now consider an RBA hike likely, with market pricing reflecting a probability of over 70%. Rates are now fully priced at 3.85% by May and approximately 4.10% by September.

S&P 500 (US500) 6,978.03 −0.57 (−0.01%)

Dow Jones (US30) 49,015.60 +12.19 (+0.03%)

DAX (DE40) 24,822.79 −71.65 (−0.29%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 10,154.43 −53.37 (−0.52%)

USD Index 96.38 +0.17% (+0.17%)

News feed for: 2026.01.29

  • Sweden Riksbank Interest Rate Decision at 10:30 (GMT+2); – SEK (HIGH)
  • Canada Trade Balance (m/m) at 15:30 (GMT+2); – CAD (MED)
  • US Trade Balance (m/m) at 15:30 (GMT+2); – USD (MED)
  • US Initial Jobless Claims (w/w) at 15:30 (GMT+2); – USD (MED)
  • US Natural Gas Storage (w/w) at 17:30 (GMT+2). – XNG (HIGH)

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

Economics & Fundamentals Financial News
29 Jan

America is falling behind in the global EV race – that’s going to cost the US auto industry

By Hengrui Liu, Tufts University and Kelly Sims Gallagher, Tufts University 

At the 2026 Detroit Auto Show, the spotlight quietly shifted. Electric vehicles, once framed as the inevitable future of the industry, were no longer the centerpiece. Instead, automakers emphasized hybrids, updated gasoline models and incremental efficiency improvements.

The show, held in January, reflected an industry recalibration happening in real time: Ford and General Motors had recently announced US$19.5 billion and $6 billion in EV-related write-downs, respectively, reflecting the losses they expect as they unwind or delay parts of their electric vehicle plans.

The message from Detroit was unmistakable: The United States is pulling back from a transition that much of the world is accelerating.

Highlights from the Detroit Auto Show, starting with V-8 trucks, by the Detroit Free Press’ auto writer.

That retreat carries consequences far beyond showroom floors.

In China, Europe and a growing number of emerging markets, including Vietnam and Indonesia, electric vehicles now make up a higher share of new passenger vehicle sales than in the United States.

That means the U.S. pullback on EV production is not simply a climate problem – gasoline-powered vehicles are a major contributor to climate change – it is also an industrial competitiveness problem, with direct implications for the future of U.S. automakers, suppliers and autoworkers. Slower EV production and slower adoption in the U.S. can keep prices higher, delay improvements in batteries and software, and increase the risk that the next generation of automotive value creation will happen elsewhere.

Where EVs are taking over

In 2025, global EV registrations rose 20% to 20.7 million. Analysts with Benchmark Mineral Intelligence reported that China reached 12.9 million EV registrations, up 17% from the previous year; Europe recorded 4.3 million, up 33%; and the rest of the world added 1.7 million, up 48%.

By contrast, U.S. EV sales growth was essentially flat in 2025, at about 1%. U.S. automaker Tesla experienced declines in both scale and profitability – its vehicle deliveries fell 9% compared to 2024, the company’s net profit was down 46%, and CEO Elon Musk said it would put more of its focus on artificial intelligence and robotics.

Market share tells a similar story and also challenges the assumption that vehicle electrification would take time to expand from wealthy countries to emerging markets.

In 39 countries, EVs now exceed 10% of new car sales, including in Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia, which reached 38%, 21% and 15%, respectively, in 2025, energy analysts at Ember report.

In the U.S., EVs accounted for less than 10% of new vehicle sales, by Ember’s estimates.

U.S. President Donald Trump came back into office in 2025 promising to end policies that supported EV production and sales and boost fossil fuels. But while the U.S. was curtailing federal consumer incentives, governments elsewhere largely continued a transition to electric vehicles.

Europe softened its goal for all vehicles to have zero emissions by 2035 at the urging of automakers, but its new target is still a 90% cut in automobiles’ carbon dioxide emissions by 2035.

Germany launched a program offering subsidies worth 1,500 to 6,000 euros per electric vehicle, aimed at small- and medium-income households.

In developing economies, EV policy has largely been sustained through industrial policies. In Brazil, the MOVER program offers tax credits explicitly linked to domestic EV production, research and development, and efficiency targets. South Africa is introducing a 150% investment allowance for EV and battery manufacturing, giving them a tax break starting in March 2026. Thailand has implemented subsidies and reduced excise tax tied to mandatory local production and export commitments.

In China, the EV industry has entered a phase of regulatory maturity. After a decade of subsidies and state-led investment that helped domestic firms undercut global competitors, the government’s focus is no longer on explosive growth at home.

With their domestic market saturated and competition fierce, Chinese automakers are pushing aggressively into global markets. Beijing has reinforced this shift by ending its full tax exemption for EV purchases and replacing it with a tapered 5% tax on EV buyers.

Consequences for US automakers

EV manufacturing is governed by steep learning curves and scale economies, meaning the more vehicles a company builds, the better it gets at making them faster and cheaper. Low domestic production and sales can mean higher costs for parts and weaker bargaining power for automakers in global supply chains.

The competitive landscape is already changing. In 2025, China exported 2.65 million EVs, doubling its 2024 exports, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. And BYD surpassed Tesla as the world’s largest EV maker in 2025.

The U.S. risks becoming a follower in the industry it once defined.

Some people argue that American consumers simply prefer trucks and hybrids. Others point to Chinese subsidies and overcapacity as distortions that justify U.S. industry caution. These concerns deserve consideration, but they do not outweigh the fundamental fact that, globally, the EV share of auto sales continues to rise.

What can the US do?

For U.S. automakers and workers to compete in this market, the government, in our view, will have to stop treating EVs as an ideological matter and start governing it like an industrial transition.

That starts with restoring regulatory credibility, something that seems unlikely right now as the Trump administration moves to roll back vehicle emissions standards. Performance standards are the quiet engine of industrial investment. When standards are predictable and enforced, manufacturers can plan, suppliers can invest in new businesses, and workers can train for reliable demand.

Governments at state and local levels and industry can also take important steps.

Focus on affordability and equity: The federal clean-vehicle tax credit that effectively gave EV buyers a discount expired in September 2025. An alternative is targeted, point-of-sale support for lower- and middle-income buyers. By moving away from blanket credits in favor of targeted incentives – a model already used in California and Pennsylvania – governments can ensure public funds are directed toward people who are currently priced out of the EV market. Additionally, interest-rate buydowns that allow buyers to reduce their loan payments and “green loan” programs can help, typically funded through state and local governments, utility companies or federal grants.

Keep building out the charging network: A federal judge ruled on Jan. 23, 2026, that the Trump administration violated the law when it suspended a $5 billion program for expanding the nation’s EV charger network. That expansion effort can be improved by shifting the focus from the number of ports installed to the number of working chargers, as California did in 2025. Enforcing reliability and clearing bottlenecks, such as electricity connections and payment systems, could help boost the number of functioning sites.

Use fleet procurement as a stabilizer for U.S. sales: When states, cities and companies provide a predictable volume of vehicle purchases, that helps manufacturers plan future investments. For example, Amazon’s 2019 order of 100,000 Rivian electric delivery vehicles to be delivered over the following decade gave the startup automaker the boost it needed.

Treat workforce transition as core infrastructure: This means giving workers skills they can carry from job to job, helping suppliers retool instead of shutting down, and coordinating training with employers’ needs. Done right, these investments turn economic change into a source of stable jobs and broad public support. Done poorly, they risk a political backlash.

The scene at the Detroit Auto Show should be a warning, not a verdict. The global auto industry is accelerating its EV transition. The question for the United States is whether it will shape that future – and ensure the technologies and jobs of the next automotive era are in the U.S. – or import it.The Conversation

About the Author:

Hengrui Liu, Postdoctoral Scholar in Economics and Public Policy, The Fletcher School, Tufts University and Kelly Sims Gallagher, Professor of Energy and Environmental Policy, Director of the Climate Policy Lab and Center for International Environment and Resource Policy, The Fletcher School, Tufts University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

 

Energy Opinions
28 Jan

Today’s BoC and FOMC meetings are the focus of investors’ attention

By JustMarkets 

On Tuesday, the US stock indices traded mixed. By the end of the session, the Dow Jones (US30) declined by 0.83%, while the S&P 500 (US500) gained 0.41%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (US100) closed higher by 0.88%. Investors continued to build positions ahead of a busy week of corporate earnings and key policy decisions. With approximately three-quarters of S&P 500 companies that have reported so far exceeding expectations, the market focus now shifts to the Federal Reserve’s decision and the accompanying signals to be announced today.

Today, the Bank of Canada (BoC) will hold its scheduled monetary policy meeting. According to the consensus among major banks, the key interest rate is expected to remain unchanged at 2.25%. The regulator has paused to assess the impact of US trade tariffs and the economic policies of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government on exports and the broader economic balance. Markets will closely watch the Monetary Policy Report (MPR) for signals regarding the resilience of Canadian economic growth and GDP amid intensifying global uncertainty, as well as hints at the future policy trajectory. A “hawkish” scenario that emphasizes inflationary risks and a strong labor market could boost the Canadian Dollar (CAD).

European equity markets mostly rose on Tuesday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) fell by 0.15%, France’s CAC 40 (FR40) closed up 0.27%, Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) gained 0.70%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) finished at 0.58%. Investors adopted a wait-and-see approach ahead of the Fed statement and US Big Tech earnings, while also digesting news regarding the EU-India trade deal. The automotive sector faced the most pressure: under the agreement, tariffs on cars were reduced from 110% to 10% for a quota of 250,000 vehicles per year. Consequently, shares of Porsche Automobil Holding, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and BMW lost between 0.6% and 2.6%.

On Wednesday, Silver prices (XAG) rose to $115 per ounce, approaching a new all-time high amid a sharp weakening of the US Dollar and increased demand for safe-haven assets. The movement was catalyzed by statements from US President Donald Trump, who indicated he was not concerned about the falling Dollar, which has dropped to four-year lows. These comments bolstered expectations that the administration is willing to tolerate a weak Dollar to enhance the competitiveness of US exports. Further support for precious metals came from political uncertainty in Washington, including threats of new trade tariffs and escalating attacks on the Federal Reserve’s independence, which are undermining investor confidence in the Greenback and US assets.

WTI Oil prices rose by approximately 2% on Tuesday, climbing toward the $62 per barrel level. Prices were supported by a severe winter storm in the US, which significantly disrupted oil production and refinery operations. Estimates suggest that US oil producers lost up to 2 million barrels per day over the weekend, roughly 15% of national output, as extreme frost strained energy infrastructure and power grids. Geopolitics also remained in focus, as the US deployed an aircraft carrier and escort ships to the Middle East, raising tension levels and supporting the risk premium in oil prices.

The US Natural Gas prices (XNG) declined by more than 7% to $6.27 per MMBtu following an unprecedented rally of approximately 117% over the previous five trading sessions. Warmer weather forecasts and early signs of production recovery following the massive disruptions triggered the correction.

Asian markets rose confidently yesterday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) gained 0.85%, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) rose by 0.37%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) climbed 1.35%, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) posted a positive result of 0.92%.

On Wednesday, the Australian Dollar (AUD) traded near 0.699 USD, holding close to a three-year high following the release of inflation data. According to the report, annual inflation in December accelerated to 3.8% from 3.4% in November, and the monthly figure rose by 1.0%, significantly exceeding expectations of 0.7%. Closely watched core inflation also remained stubbornly high: the annual figure rose to 3.4%, well above the RBA’s target range of 2-3%. Against this backdrop, markets swiftly repriced rate expectations, with the probability of a 25 bps hike at the February 3rd RBA meeting rising to 72%, up from 63% before the inflation data release.

S&P 500 (US500) 6,978.60 +28.37 (+0.41%)

Dow Jones (US30) 49,003.41 −408.99 (−0.83%)

DAX (DE40) 24,894.44 −38.64 (−0.15%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 10,207.80 +58.95 +(0.58%)

USD Index 95.86 -1.23% (-1.27%)

News feed for: 2026.01.28

  • Japan Monetary Policy Meeting Minutes at 01:50 (GMT+2); – JPY (MED)
  • Australia Consumer Price Index (m/m) at 02:30 (GMT+2); – AUD (HIGH)
  • German GfK German Consumer Climate (m/m) at 09:00 (GMT+2); – EUR (MED)
  • Canada BoC Interest Rate Decision at 16:45 (GMT+2); – CAD (HIGH)
  • Canada BoC Monetary Policy Report at 16:45 (GMT+2); – CAD (HIGH)
  • Canada BoC Press Conference at 17:30 (GMT+2); – CAD (HIGH)
  • US Crude Oil Reserves (w/w) at 17:30 (GMT+2); – WTI (HIGH)
  • US Fed Interest Rate Decision at 21:00 (GMT+2); – USD, XAU (HIGH)
  • US FOMC Statement at 21:00 (GMT+2); – USD, XAU (HIGH)
  • US Fed Press Conference at 21:30 (GMT+2); – USD, XAU (HIGH)
  • New Zealand Trade Balance (q/q) at 23:45 (GMT+2). – NZD (MED)

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

Economics & Fundamentals Financial News
28 Jan

EUR/USD Updates Four-Year High: Everything Works Against the US Dollar

By RoboForex Analytical Department

EUR/USD reached 1.2000 on Wednesday after rising to 1.2082 the previous evening, marking a strong four-day rally. The pressure on the US dollar has intensified following comments from US President Donald Trump. He stated that he was not concerned about the weakening of the dollar, viewing its fall as moderate. The market interpreted this as a signal that the administration might be willing to tolerate a weaker dollar to enhance export competitiveness.

An additional blow to the dollar came from rising political uncertainty in Washington, with Trump making fresh statements about Greenland and continuing to criticise the US Federal Reserve’s independence.

Further compounding the dollar’s decline is growing speculation about a potential joint US-Japan currency intervention to support the yen, which has boosted demand for JPY.

Investors’ focus is on the Federal Reserve’s decision, due later tonight. The Fed is widely expected to maintain its current interest rate, but much attention is on potential signals regarding the timing of future rate cuts. Current expectations suggest two 25-basis-point cuts by the end of the year.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, EUR/USD has formed an upward wave towards 1.2080. A breakout above this resistance level would signal a continuation of the bullish trend. For now, the pair is in a corrective phase, with support around 1.1935. The correction is confirmed by the MACD indicator, which shows the histogram and signal line above zero and forming a downward wave. After the correction, the upward trend may resume towards 1.2100 and potentially 1.2200, though corrections could occur during the rise.

On the H1 chart, after testing resistance, EUR/USD is forming a correction. A rebound from support at 1.1935 would signal a continuation of the bullish wave. The Stochastic indicator’s signal lines are approaching the 20 level, suggesting that the correction may continue before resuming the upward trend. The next target for growth could be 1.2100.

Conclusion

The EUR/USD pair continues to show bullish momentum, supported by a weaker US dollar and rising geopolitical tensions. The ongoing correction might offer buying opportunities, with further growth likely towards 1.2100 and 1.2200, depending on the Fed’s upcoming decision and global market dynamics.

 

 

Disclaimer

Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author’s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.

Financial News Forex and Currency News
27 Jan

Copper Targets Take Center Stage as New Drill Program Launches in Minnesota

Source: Streetwise Reports (1/26/26)

Green Bridge Metals Corp. (GRBM:CSE; GBMCF:OTC; J48:FWB) has initiated a diamond drilling program at the Titac Project, part of its South Contact District portfolio in northeastern Minnesota. The campaign aims to evaluate copper mineralization within a known titanium-bearing zone using modern geophysics and historic data.

Green Bridge Metals Corp. (GRBM:CSE; GBMCF:OTC; J48:FWB) has commenced a diamond core drilling program at its Titac Project, part of the South Contact District in northeastern Minnesota. The Phase 1 program is the first stage of targeted drilling aimed at evaluating and expanding copper mineralization at the Titac South deposit, which also hosts a titanium dioxide mineral resource outlined in an NI 43-101 Technical Report dated September 18, 2024.

According to the company, the drill program consists of six diamond core holes, each targeting a depth of approximately 300 meters, for a total of roughly 1,800 meters. The drill holes will be arranged in a fence-style section across the Titac South deposit, spaced approximately 50 meters apart.

The program’s objectives include defining the geological and structural controls on copper mineralization, validating historic copper assay results, and testing the spatial relationship between copper mineralization and geophysical anomalies.

The company stated that copper mineralization at Titac occurs primarily as chalcopyrite and is associated with an Oxide Ultramafic Intrusion (OUI) that also hosts the titanium dioxide resource. Drill targets have been prioritized where conductive and magnetic anomalies overlap, based on a 2025 VTEM airborne electromagnetic survey and modern 3D magnetic and conductivity inversions.

David Suda, President and CEO of Green Bridge Metals, said in a company news release, “The commencement of drilling at Titac is an important milestone for Green Bridge as we begin systematically testing the copper potential of a project that already hosts a titanium resource.” He added, “The strong correlation between these anomalies and known mineralization, together with the identification of several new targets, reinforces the exploration potential at Titac.”

US Policy Shifts Reshape Critical Mineral Supply Landscape

According to Catherine Boudreau, on January 7, analysis of U.S. interest in Venezuelan critical minerals showed that while the country was believed to hold deposits used in artificial intelligence, defense systems, and renewable energy technologies, significant barriers limited their relevance. Experts cited political instability, lack of reliable data, illegal mining activity, and infrastructure constraints. Tom Moerenhout of Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy was quoted as saying, “In theory, yes, Venezuela has a lot of interesting critical minerals resources. In practice, those resources are only relevant if they are economically recoverable reserves.” The analysis also noted that most Western mining companies remain focused on expanding existing operations rather than entering high-risk jurisdictions. 

In a separate sector assessment, Reed Blakemore and Alexis Harmon wrote on January 13 that Greenland possesses “substantial reserves of rare earth elements, uranium, and other strategically important minerals,” but faces major obstacles to development. The authors stated that Greenland lacks extensive infrastructure and emphasized that Greenland’s mineral potential is largely long-term rather than immediately actionable.

According to Muflih Hidayat on January 26, U.S. policy toward critical minerals entered a new phase with the proposal of a US$2.5 billion Strategic Resilience Reserve. The report stated that the United States maintained “100% import reliance on 12 essential minerals and 50%+ dependency on an additional 29 strategic materials,” highlighting supply chain vulnerability. It also noted China’s “90% processing dominance in rare earth elements” as a concentration risk. The analysis explained that the proposed reserve would allow above-market purchasing, counter-cyclical stockpiling, and profit reinvestment. As quoted in Congressional testimony cited in the report, “The legislation aims to provide targeted investments and stockpiling key inputs to help insulate the U.S. from foreign threats while providing a significant and cost-effective boost to the U.S. economy.”

Also on January 26, Bloomberg noted copper’s sharp price surge, stating it had “surged nearly 50% in eight months.” The report acknowledged copper’s critical role in manufacturing, clean energy, and artificial intelligence infrastructure, adding that “years of chronic underinvestment have left global mine capacity stretched to its limits.” TD Securities’ Daniel Ghali described copper’s tight supply conditions as “an unprecedented level of copper scarcity,” while Global X’s Trevor Yates said miners could remain profitable across normalized business cycles. Bloomberg also reported that unencumbered above-ground copper inventories had reached “unprecedentedly low levels,” and warned that markets could no longer withstand notable disruptions without significant pricing pressure.

Analysts Point to District-Scale Footprint and Strategic Metals Exposure

1On December 26, John Newell of John Newell & Associates published a favorable assessment of Green Bridge Metals Corp., assigning the company a Speculative Buy rating. Newell stated that the company had “quietly assembled a district-scale land position” across northern Minnesota and Ontario, with exposure to copper, nickel, platinum group metals, titanium, and vanadium. He described these commodities as being “at the center of electrification, infrastructure renewal, and defense supply chain priorities.”

Newell identified the Serpentine project as the company’s foundational asset and described it as the primary source of near-term value. He referenced an existing mineral resource estimate consisting of approximately 21.6 million tonnes of Indicated material grading 0.69% copper equivalent and 280 million tonnes of Inferred material grading 0.53% copper equivalent. He noted that platinum group elements were not included in the historical estimate and stated that this represented additional potential. Newell also highlighted the project’s level of advancement, citing access to paved roads, rail, and power, along with permitted drill pads in place for the 2025–2026 program.

From a technical perspective, Newell described the company’s share price as entering an early accumulation phase, pointing to chart patterns, flattening moving averages, and reduced selling pressure. He identified a breakout range between CA$0.14 and CA$0.16 and referenced an initial price objective near CA$0.20. The stock has since surpassed CA$0.20, and Newell noted further upside potential toward CA$0.30 and CA$0.40 under favorable market and company-specific conditions.

Earlier the same day, Michael Ballanger of GGM Advisory Inc. also issued a positive outlook on the company. Ballanger stated that he added Green Bridge Metals to his portfolio following a review of the Serpentine project and a discussion with the company’s chief executive officer. He described the Duluth Complex as “one of the most highly-prospective regions on the planet” and pointed to the geological setting and established infrastructure as key attributes.

Ballanger also drew attention to the company’s titanium exposure, noting that titanium appeared on the U.S. Geological Survey’s 2025 List of Critical Minerals. He stated, “Owning a developer with a focus on a critical metal (titanium) accomplishes” the objective of maintaining portfolio exposure to strategic assets that were not correlated with traditional markets. Ballanger referenced U.S. government funding initiatives that allocated US$37.5 million in 2025 toward titanium development and noted upcoming drill programs at the South Contact Zone and Serpentine as milestones in the company’s progression.

Multiple Exploration Streams Underway

Green Bridge Metals is undertaking several initiatives across its South Contact District portfolio, including both follow-up work at Titac and new exploration at additional project areas.

At Titac, the current Phase 1 drill program is designed to determine whether copper mineralization is confined to the Oxide Ultramafic Intrusion or extends into adjacent layered mafic intrusions. Subject to results, subsequent phases may include additional drilling at Titac South to assess continuity and extent of copper mineralization, initial drill testing at Titac North, and testing of a newly identified deep conductive and magnetic anomaly south of the current target area.

Streetwise Ownership Overview* 

Retail: 73.86%
Institutions: 15%
Strategic Investors: 10%
Management & Insiders: 1.14%
73.9%
15.0%
10.0%
*Share Structure as of 1/20/2026

 

Beyond Titac, the company is also advancing its Serpentine project. The company has outlined a longer-term exploration framework that includes up to 25,500 meters of infill drilling to be completed in multiple phases, along with pilot-scale metallurgical testing and work aimed at increasing the copper-equivalent grade by expanding known high-grade zones. The total multi-year exploration program has been estimated at approximately US$11.8 million. According to the company’s investor presentation, the project is permitted for exploration drilling and is near well-developed infrastructure.  Additional work at the Skibo prospect includes completion of historical core sampling and evaluation of cobalt and platinum group element byproducts. Historical results from Skibo include intervals such as 3.0 meters of 1.6% Cu, 0.4% Ni, and 18.3 g/t PGE, and 153 meters of 0.28% Cu, 0.15% Ni, and 0.37 g/t PGE.exploration activities at Serpentine are permitted for near-term work, and the project is located in a jurisdiction with existing road, rail, and processing infrastructure.

Ownership and Share Structure2

Encampment Minerals, a strategic partner and asset vendor, holds approximately 10% of Green Bridge. Four institutional investors collectively own 15% of the float. Management and insiders own a total of 1.14%, including CEO David Suda, who holds 2 million shares.

Green Bridge Metals has 196,758,632 shares outstanding and a market capitalization of CA$30 million. The company has a 52-week trading range of CA$0.08-CA$0.26.

 

Important Disclosures:

  1. Green Bridge is a billboard sponsor of Streetwise Reports and pays SWR a monthly sponsorship fee between US$3,000 and US$6,000.
  2. As of the date of this article, officers, contractors, shareholders, and/or employees of Streetwise Reports LLC (including members of their household) own securities of Green Bridge.
  3. James Guttman wrote this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise Reports as an employee.
  4. This article does not constitute investment advice and is not a solicitation for any investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her personal financial adviser and perform their own comprehensive investment research. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports’ terms of use and full legal disclaimer. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company.

For additional disclosures, please click here.

  1. Disclosure for the quote from the John Newell article published on December 26, 2025
  1. For the quoted article (published on December 26, 2025), the Company has paid Street Smart, an affiliate of Streetwise Reports, between US$3,500.
  2. Author Certification and Compensation: [John Newell of John Newell and Associates] was retained and compensated as an independent contractor by Street Smart for writing this article. Mr. Newell holds a Chartered Investment Management (CIM) designation (2015) and a  U.S. Portfolio Manager designation (2015). The recommendations and opinions expressed in this content reflect the personal, independent, and objective views of the author regarding any and all of the companies discussed. No part of the compensation received by the author was, is, or will be directly or indirectly tied to the specific recommendations or views expressed.

John Newell Disclaimer

As always it is important to note that investing in precious metals like silver carries risks, and market conditions can change violently with shock and awe tactics, that we have seen over the past 20 years. Before making any investment decisions, it’s advisable consult with a financial advisor if needed. Also the practice of conducting thorough research and to consider your investment goals and risk tolerance.

  1. Ownership and Share Structure Information

The information listed above was updated on the date this article was published and was compiled from information from the company and various other data providers.

Financial News Metals
27 Jan

Moore’s law: the famous rule of computing has reached the end of the road, so what comes next?

By Domenico Vicinanza, Anglia Ruskin University 

For half a century, computing advanced in a reassuring, predictable way. Transistors – devices used to switch electrical signals on a computer chip – became smaller. Consequently, computer chips became faster, and society quietly assimilated the gains almost without noticing.

These faster chips enable greater computing power by allowing devices to perform tasks more efficiently. As a result, we saw scientific simulations improving, weather forecasts becoming more accurate, graphics more realistic, and later, machine learning systems being developed and flourishing. It looked as if computing power itself obeyed a natural law.

This phenomenon became known as Moore’s Law, after the businessman and scientist Gordon Moore. Moore’s Law summarised the empirical observation that the number of transistors on a chip approximately doubled every couple of years. This also allows the size of devices to shrink, so it drives miniaturisation.

That sense of certainty and predictability has now gone, and not because innovation has stopped, but because the physical assumptions that once underpinned it no longer hold.

So what replaces the old model of automatic speed increases? The answer is not a single breakthrough, but several overlapping strategies.

One involves new materials and transistor designs. Engineers are refining how transistors are built to reduce wasted energy and unwanted electrical leakage. These changes deliver smaller, more incremental improvements than in the past, but they help keep power use under control.

Another approach is changing how chips are physically organised. Rather than placing all components on a single flat surface, modern chips increasingly stack parts on top of each other or arrange them more closely. This reduces the distance that data has to travel, saving both time and energy.

Perhaps the most important shift is specialisation. Instead of one general-purpose processor trying to do everything, modern systems combine different kinds of processors. Traditional processing units or CPUs handle control and decision-making. Graphics processors, are powerful processing units that were originally designed to handle the demands of graphics for computer games and other tasks. AI accelerators (specialised hardware that speeds up AI tasks) focus on large numbers of simple calculations carried out in parallel. Performance now depends on how well these components work together, rather than on how fast any one of them is.

Alongside these developments, researchers are exploring more experimental technologies, including quantum processors (which harness the power of quantum science) and photonic processors, which use light instead of electricity.

These are not general-purpose computers, and they are unlikely to replace conventional machines. Their potential lies in very specific areas, such as certain optimisation or simulation problems where classical computers can struggle to explore large numbers of possible solutions efficiently. In practice, these technologies are best understood as specialised co-processors, used selectively and in combination with traditional systems.

For most everyday computing tasks, improvements in conventional processors, memory systems and software design will continue to matter far more than these experimental approaches.

For users, life after Moore’s Law does not mean that computers stop improving. It means that improvements arrive in more uneven and task-specific ways. Some applications, such as AI-powered tools, diagnostics, navigation, complex modelling, may see noticeable gains, while general-purpose performance increases more slowly.

New technologies

At the Supercomputing SC25 conference in St Louis, hybrid systems that mix CPUs (processors) and GPUs (graphics processing units) with emerging technologies such as quantum or photonic processors were increasingly presented and discussed as practical extensions of classical computing. For most everyday tasks, improvements in classical processors, memories and software will continue to deliver the biggest gains.

But there is growing interest in using quantum and photonic devices as co-
processors, not replacements. Their appeal lies in tackling specific classes of
problems, such as complex optimisation or routing tasks, where finding low-energy
or near-optimal solutions can be exponentially expensive for classical machines
alone.

In this supporting role, they offer a credible way to combine the reliability of
classical computing with new computational techniques that expand what these
systems can do.

Life after Moore’s Law is not a story of decline, but one that requires constant
transformation and evolution. Computing progress now depends on architectural
specialisation, careful energy management, and software that is deeply aware of
hardware constraints. The danger lies in confusing complexity with inevitability, or marketing narratives with solved problems.

The post-Moore era forces a more honest relationship with computation where performance is not anymore something we inherit automatically from smaller transistors, but it is something we must design, justify, and pay for, in energy, in complexity, and in trade-offs.The Conversation

About the Author:

Domenico Vicinanza, Associate Professor of Intelligent Systems and Data Science, Anglia Ruskin University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Opinions Programming
27 Jan

Precious metals and gas prices continue to rise.

By JustMarkets 

On Monday, the US stock indices posted solid gains. By the end of the day, the Dow Jones (US30) rose by 0.64%, while the S&P 500 (US500) increased by 0.50%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq (US100) closed higher by 0.43%. Growth was driven primarily by the technology and communication services sectors: shares of Apple, Meta, and Microsoft strengthened significantly ahead of their financial results, whereas the consumer goods sector lagged due to a decline in Tesla stock. Market focus shifted to Wednesday’s Fed meeting and speculation about the potential appointment of a new Chairman, as well as the risk of a renewed US government “shutdown” over budget disagreements. Additional uncertainty was fueled by trade threats against Canada over its potential rapprochement with China, despite Ottawa’s efforts to de-escalate the situation.

The Canadian dollar (CAD) stabilized near 1.37 against the US dollar, halting its rally near monthly highs amid a balance of supporting and restraining factors. On the one hand, the currency continues to be supported by rising oil prices, driven by a supply crunch in high-sulfur fuel amid slowing exports from Russia, disruptions in key US regions, and lower shipments from Venezuela to China. On the other hand, further upside potential is limited by rising trade and geopolitical uncertainty. Pressure on CAD resumed following President Trump’s threats to impose 100% tariffs on Canadian imports should Ottawa pursue closer ties with China.

European equity markets mostly rose on Monday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) climbed 0.13%, France’s CAC 40 (FR40) closed down 0.15%, Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) rose by 0.78%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) finished 0.05% yesterday. Despite recent easing of concerns about US rhetoric on Greenland and the risk of a transatlantic trade conflict, the broader geopolitical backdrop remained tense. Macro data from Germany provided no surprises: the Ifo Business Climate Index remained at 87.6 in January, missing expectations for growth.

On Tuesday, Silver (XAG) prices surged by more than 6%, climbing above $110 per ounce and continuing a record-breaking rally. The spike was driven by a combination of geopolitical and trade risks, alongside a reallocation of capital from sovereign bonds and currencies into precious metals as safe-haven assets. Market tension was further exacerbated by President Donald Trump’s statements about a possible tariff hike on South Korean goods from 15% to 25% due to delays in ratifying a trade agreement.

Palladium (XPD) prices rose above $2,000 per ounce, reaching a three-year high as supply concerns intensified due to heightened geopolitical risks. The primary catalyst was reports of potential 100% tariffs on Canadian goods in the event of its trade rapprochement with China, fueling fears of supply disruptions to North America, given Canada’s role as a major global producer. Additional market support came from a UBS forecast revision that raised price targets, citing steady investment inflows. Demand also strengthened in China following the launch of yuan-denominated platinum futures in Guangzhou, boosting interest in platinum group metals.

The US Natural Gas (XNG) prices soared by approximately 20%, exceeding $6.3 per MMBtu, marking a high since December 2022 and continuing an extreme rally driven by weather factors. Since the beginning of last week, the increase has exceeded 90%, following a record jump of nearly 70%, which was the strongest weekly gain since records began in 1990. Extreme cold has simultaneously hit supply and sharply increased demand for heating and electricity. Frigid weather knocked out about 10% of US gas production capacity, with average January production falling from December records and daily output dropping to two-year lows. Market focus remains on the duration of these production disruptions, as their prolonged nature could lead to further price increases.

Asian markets traded with mixed results yesterday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) fell by 1.79%, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) rose by 0.34%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) gained 0.06%, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) posted a result of 0.13%. On Tuesday morning, Hong Kong and Chinese stocks continued to rise. Support was broad-based, with the largest contribution coming from the financial sector, which grew by about 2% after Beijing announced intentions to deepen the integration of mainland Chinese and Hong Kong financial markets. Further positive sentiment was provided by Chinese macro data: industrial profits in 2025 grew by 0.6% year-on-year, a notable acceleration from the 0.1% growth recorded during the January-November period.

S&P 500 (US500) 6,950.23 +34.62 (+0.50%)

Dow Jones (US30) 49,412.40 +313.69 (+0.64%)

DAX (DE40) 24,933.08 +32.37 (+0.13%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 10,148.85 +5.41 (+0.053%)

USD Index 97.07 -0.53% (-0.55%)

News feed for: 2026.01.27

  • Australia NAB Business Confidence at 02:30 (GMT+2); – AUD (MED)
  • US CB Consumer Confidence (m/m) at 17:00 (GMT+2); – USD (MED)
  • Eurozone ECB President Lagarde Speech at 19:00 (GMT+2). – EUR (LOW)

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

Economics & Fundamentals Financial News
27 Jan

USD/JPY on Pause: Yen Slows After Sharp Rally

By RoboForex Analytical Department

USD/JPY settled at 154.29 on Tuesday, with the yen pausing its rally after a notable surge of nearly 3.2% in the previous two sessions. This move was driven by growing concerns about a possible coordinated currency intervention between Japan and the US.

The market was boosted by news that the Federal Reserve Bank of New York had requested USD/JPY levels from dealers on Friday. At the same time, Japanese officials confirmed that they were in close communication with the US on currency policy and potential market actions.

However, Bank of Japan (BoJ) data suggested that the sharp yen appreciation on Friday was unlikely to be due to direct intervention. This speculation intensified the market’s reaction and speculative positioning.

The yen continued to receive support from the broader weakness of the US dollar, driven by rising geopolitical risks and trade uncertainties, as well as expectations that US President Donald Trump might replace Fed Chairman Jerome Powell with a softer candidate, further pressuring the US currency.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, USD/JPY has formed a correction wave following the previous decline. A continuation of the growth wave to the 155.00 level is possible today. After this rise, a rebound from the resistance level is expected, with the first target for a further decline at 153.00, followed by 152.00. This scenario is confirmed by the MACD indicator, as the histogram is below zero and rising, with the signal line likely to cross the histogram and turn upwards soon.

On the H1 chart, USD/JPY is testing the 153.80 mark and forming a growth wave. If the price tests the 155.00 level and rebounds, further declines could be expected, with the first support at 153.00 USD. The Stochastic oscillator supports this, as its signal lines continue to decline towards the 50.0 level. A break of this level would signal a continuation of the downward trend.

Conclusion

USD/JPY has paused its rapid ascent amid speculation of potential currency intervention. Despite a weaker US dollar and geopolitical risks, the yen’s recent strength is being tested. Technically, while the immediate outlook points to a possible short-term rise to 155.00, a rebound and subsequent decline towards 153.00 could be on the horizon, depending on how market sentiment evolves.

 

 

Disclaimer

Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author’s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.

Financial News Forex and Currency News
26 Jan

Silver Surges Past $108 for the First Time. Natural Gas Hits $6/MMBtu

By JustMarkets

On Friday, US stock markets closed mixed. The Dow Jones (US30) declined by 0.58% (-0.74% for the week), while the S&P 500 (US500) edged up 0.03% (-0.65% for the week). The tech-heavy Nasdaq (US100) gained 0.34% (-0.41% for the week). Energy companies led the day’s gains, and the technology segment was bolstered by Nvidia (+1.5%) and AMD (+2.3%) following signals from China regarding potential orders for H200 AI chips. Conversely, a sharp 17% drop in Intel shares, triggered by a weak forecast and news of operational challenges, weighed on the semiconductor sector and pulled down Broadcom, limiting overall gains. Macroeconomic data provided a conflicting picture: the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index was revised upward to a multi-month high, yet preliminary S&P Global PMIs pointed to a moderate slowdown in both services and manufacturing.

Geopolitical tensions escalated as US President Donald Trump threatened Canada with 100% tariffs on all exports to the US if Ottawa moves forward with a trade agreement with China, labeling such a move a “strategic error.” This follows Canada’s recent steps toward Beijing, including agreements to increase Chinese EV imports. Prime Minister Mark Carney stated he expects China to lower tariffs on Canadian canola following his recent meeting with Xi Jinping, the first visit by a Canadian leader to Beijing in eight years.

The Mexican peso (MXN) strengthened past the 17.4 mark against the dollar, returning to its June 2024 highs after a brief correction. Previously, the currency faced pressure from a global flight to safety amid US-Europe trade frictions sparked by Trump’s statements on Greenland. The peso’s recovery highlights its fundamental resilience, supported by the Bank of Mexico’s hawkish stance. The suspension of the easing cycle, with the key rate held at 7%, provides attractive real yields and continues to draw foreign investor interest into local debt instruments.

European equity markets mostly trended lower on Friday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) rose by 0.18% (-0.16% for the week), while France’s CAC 40 (FR40) fell 0.07% (+0.22% for the week). Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) dropped 0.67% (+0.23% for the week), and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) slipped 0.07% (-0.90% for the week). In a sudden pivot at the Davos conference, President Trump temporarily walked back threats of tariffs against European countries that opposed the US acquisition of Greenland, citing a “framework deal” with NATO. While this eased immediate political tension, uncertainty regarding Washington’s long-term strategy remains. Macro data showed steady private-sector expansion in the Eurozone, as reflected in PMIs, reinforcing expectations that the ECB will maintain its current policy.

Silver (XAG) made history by breaking the $ 108-per-ounce threshold, driven by a weakening dollar, geopolitical strife, and economic uncertainty. The US dollar came under pressure as markets worried Europe might leverage its vast US assets in response to the Greenland crisis. Beyond macro factors, silver’s rally was fueled by a massive short squeeze, robust retail demand, and China’s tightening of export controls on industrial metals.

On Monday, US Natural Gas prices (XNG) surged by over 17%, exceeding $6/MMBtu for the first time since late 2022, as a historic winter storm gripped the nation. Prices have nearly doubled in the last two weeks, the largest gain on record, due to forecasts for sustained arctic temperatures. Inventory reports showed a larger-than-expected withdrawal of 120 billion cubic feet, and analysts anticipate further drawdowns as heating demand intensifies.
Asian markets showed mixed performance last week. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) rose by 0.86%, while the FTSE China A50 (CHA50) fell by 2.99%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) gained 0.41%, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) closed the week down 0.27%.

The Singapore dollar (SGD) has strengthened to approximately 1.27 against the US dollar, marking its highest level since October 2014. This appreciation is fueled by capital inflows into safe-haven assets and market expectations that the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) will maintain its current policy stance. The currency remains in steady demand due to its “safe haven” status, underpinned by Singapore’s AAA-rated bond market, high stock market dividend yields, and predictable economic policy amid heightened global uncertainty.

S&P 500 (US500) 6,915.61 +2.26 (+0.03%)

Dow Jones (US30) 49,098.71 −285.30 (−0.58%)

DAX (DE40) 24,900.71 +44.24 (+0.18%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 10,143.44 −6.61 (−0.07%)

USD Index 97.46 -0.90% (-0.92%)

News feed for: 2026.01.26

  • German Ifo Business Climate (m/m) at 11:00 (GMT+2); – EUR (MED)
  • US Durable Goods Orders (m/m) at 15:30 (GMT+2). – USD (MED)

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

Economics & Fundamentals Financial News
26 Jan

Gold Surges Above 5,000 USD: Safe-Haven Demand Explodes

By RoboForex Analytical Department

Gold has broken through the historic 5,000 USD per troy ounce mark, rising above 5,075 USD for the first time. The metal continues its record rally as investors aggressively shift into defensive assets amid escalating trade and geopolitical uncertainty.

The main catalyst was renewed rhetoric from US President Donald Trump. Over the weekend, he stated that Washington would seek sovereignty over parts of Greenland where US military bases are located. These comments reignited market anxiety, coming just days after a temporary easing of tariff threats against several European countries.

Further pressure on global markets followed Trump’s warning to Canada. He stated that all Canadian exports to the US could face 100% tariffs if Ottawa finalises a trade agreement with China. The statement came a week after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a preliminary deal with Beijing, which involves a mutual reduction in tariffs.

Geopolitical risks also remain elevated. Ukraine and Russia held another round of US-mediated talks without reaching an agreement, although both sides signalled readiness to continue negotiations next weekend.

As a result, rising geopolitical tensions and aggressive trade threats have sharply increased capital inflows into gold, further strengthening its role as the primary global safe-haven asset.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 XAUUSD chart, gold has confidently broken above 5,000 and is now developing a strong bullish wave towards the 5,215 level. After reaching this area, a corrective pullback towards 5,000 is possible. The MACD confirms strong upside momentum, with the signal line at highs and pointing firmly upwards.

On the H1 chart, the price has broken and consolidated above the 5,050 level, which is acting as support. The trend is expected to extend towards 5,200. The Stochastic oscillator supports this bullish scenario, with the signal line above 50 and continuing to rise.

Conclusion

Gold has entered a new historical phase above 5,000 USD, driven by escalating geopolitical risks and aggressive US trade rhetoric. As long as uncertainty around global politics and trade persists, gold is likely to remain strongly supported, with further upside potential despite the risk of short-term technical corrections.

 

Disclaimer

Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author’s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.

Financial News Metals
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