STORY: From the AI spotlight shining on Alphabet to Japan’s currency and bond markets, these are the stories to watch in business and finance in the coming week.:: Look Ahead:: Alphabet’s ascensionAlphabet is back in the AI game.The Google parent’s stock has become a 2025 standout performer among the “Magnificent 7” megacaps.Alphabet has benefited from the strong performance of its cloud business and the launch of its latest Gemini AI model. Shares are up nearly 70% year-to-date, roughly doubling Nvidia’s 2025 gain, as its market value approaches $4 trillion.:: Eyes on JapanDebt auctions and speeches by central bankers are in focus in Japan where currency and bond markets are on edge after a massive stimulus announcement.Concerns over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s spending plan sent Japan’s benchmark 10-year bond yield to a 17-year high, while the 30-year yield jumped to a record this month.The latest test comes when the Ministry of Finance sells 10-year debt on Tuesday and 30-year on Thursday.:: Ukraine peace talks:: FileU.S. President Donald Trump’s latest push to end Russia’s war in Ukraine has spurred a fresh bout of shuttle diplomacy and brought momentum to parts of financial markets.:: Ukrainian Presidential Press ServiceUkraine’s bonds have rallied in recent days, while European defense stocks and oil have dropped.:: End of the yearMarkets are heading into the end of the year on a more even keel than at the start.The market has seemingly accepted U.S. long-term finances are unlikely to improve any time soon, but rates are set to fall in 2026, offering a layer of comfort.This earnings season reflected a corporate sector in rude health and while the S&P 500 is heading for a 0.4% decline this month, the bulls need not fret.The index has only ever fallen in both November and December in nine out of the last 50 years.Read More
Business Lookahead: The smoke and fog of December
