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Wall Street Holds Steady as S&P 500 Hits Record Ahead of Christmas Break

Market Snapshot – December 24, 2025 Dow Jones Futures: Flat at 48,735 points S&P 500 Futures: Near 6,957 points, little changed after Tuesday’s record close Nasdaq 100 Futures: Slight dip of 0.1% to 25,796.5 points S&P 500 Index: Closed Tuesday at 6,909, its latest all-time high Key Drivers Robust economic growth continues to fuel investor optimism. Seasonal “Santa Claus rally” has lifted stocks for four consecutive sessions. Markets will close early today at 1 p.m. EST and remain shut tomorrow for Christmas Day. Traders remain cautious about inflation and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026. Quick Take Wall Street enters the holiday season on a high note, with the S&P 500 near the 7,000 mark and futures showing little movement. The shortened trading session means liquidity will be thin, amplifying small moves. Still, the overall tone remains upbeat, with investors betting that the year-end rally will carry into the final days of 2025.

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Madeira Wildfires: A Battle Against Nature’s Fury


For the past eight days, wildfires have been spreading across the picturesque Portuguese island of Madeira, causing widespread destruction and threatening local communities. The situation remains critical as firefighters battle to contain the flames.

Key Points:

  1. Island in Crisis: Madeira, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant tourism industry, is now grappling with a disaster. The fires have consumed large swaths of forested areas, leaving behind charred landscapes and smoke-filled skies.

  2. Emergency Response: The European Union (EU) has stepped in to provide assistance. Firefighting teams from neighboring countries are joining local efforts to control the flames. Aerial firefighting resources, including water-dropping planes and helicopters, have been deployed.

  3. Evacuations: Residents and tourists have been evacuated from affected areas. Emergency shelters are providing refuge for those displaced by the fires.

  4. Environmental Impact: The fires have ecological consequences, endangering native flora and fauna. The island’s unique biodiversity is at risk.

  5. Investigation: Authorities are investigating the cause of the fires. While extreme heat and dry conditions are contributing factors, deliberate arson has not been ruled out.


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