Top US diplomat Blinken meets China's VP Han at UN amid strained relations

EUR/USD moves sideways in a narrow channel below 1.1800 as the market volatility remains low ahead of the New Year holiday. On Tuesday, investors will pay close attention to the minutes of the Federal Reserve's December policy meeting.

GBP/USD is oscillating around 1.3500 in the European session on Monday, supported by broad US Dollar softness. But the upside appears limited due to thin market conditions heading into the New Year holiday break. 

Gold price retreats from a record high near $4,550 in European trading on Monday as traders book some profits ahead of holidays. If the US Dollar finds renewed demand, it could also weigh on the precious metal, as it makes Gold more expensive for non-US buyers.

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple record roughly 3% gains on Monday, regaining strength mid-holiday season. Despite thin liquidity in the holiday season, BTC and major altcoins are regaining strength as US President Donald Trump pushes peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The technical outlook for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple gradually shifts bullish as selling pressure wanes.

After a year marked by global economic resilience and ending on a note of optimism, 2026 looks promising and could be a year of solid economic performance. In our baseline scenario, we expect most of the supportive factors at work in 2025 to continue to play a role in 2026.

Avalanche trades close to $12 by press time on Wednesday, extending the nearly 2% drop from the previous day. Grayscale filed an updated form to convert its Avalanche-focused Trust into an ETF with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.