Thailand’s SET Index closed at 1,244.30 points, increased 9.00 points or 0.73%, with a trading value of THB 39.17 billion. The analyst stated that the Thai market rebounded after having declined a few days prior. This was due to buying force in stocks that have been previously offloaded, particularly hospital and finance stocks. Furthermore, the surging oil prices have also bolstered energy stocks.
The analyst noted that market recovery was limited amidst focus on the formation of a new government after the upcoming election.
China reported a record trade surplus of nearly $1.2 trillion in 2025, as robust export activity to various global markets compensated for declining shipments to the United States. Exports increased by 5.5% last year, reaching $3.77 trillion, while imports remained relatively flat at $2.58 trillion. This outpaced the surplus of $992 billion recorded in 2024.
Additionally, China’s rare earth exports climbed to their highest level in at least a decade last year, even as Beijing imposed new restrictions on several medium and heavy elements starting in April. China exported 62,585 metric tons of these 17 elements during 2025. This marked a 12.9% increase from 2024, with the group’s applications spanning consumer electronics, automotive components and defense equipment.
Iran has cautioned that it will target American military facilities located in Middle Eastern countries allied with the United States if Washington launches an attack on Iranian soil. This warning follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to take action in support of anti-government protesters. A rights group disclosed that unrest across Iran has resulted in nearly 2,600 deaths.
Spot silver climbed above the closely watched $90 per ounce threshold for the first time on 14 January 2026, as softer US inflation data reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates, amid continuing global tensions and persistent supply constraints. The metal was up more than 3%.
