Austria’s wholesale prices fell to 0.1% in December from 0.9% the previous year. This indicates a slowdown in price growth compared to earlier months. The Automatic Data Processing Research Institute will soon publish its December Employment Change Report. It is expected to show that the U.S. economy added 45,000 jobs in December 2025, recovering from the 32,000 jobs lost in November.

Venezuela’s Market Stability

Venezuela’s situation is being closely monitored due to Nicolás Maduro’s removal, which has created market uncertainty. However, no changes in market or economic forecasts are expected. Aave (AAVE) is trading around $172, near the upper trendline of a falling parallel channel pattern. A breakout above this pattern would be beneficial for market participants. The significant drop in Austria’s wholesale prices to just 0.1% is a clear sign of decreasing inflation in Europe. This coincides with recent data showing that Germany’s manufacturing PMI has contracted for three consecutive months in late 2025, indicating a cooling economy. We suggest looking into put options on European equity indices as we anticipate further economic softness.

US Jobs Data Impact

Today’s U.S. jobs data is highly anticipated, with markets expecting a modest gain of only 45,000 jobs after a loss in November. This figure is well below the monthly average of 150,000 jobs created in the first half of 2025, highlighting a quickly cooling job market. Traders should prepare for volatility in S&P 500 futures, possibly using straddles to benefit from a large move in either direction. While our forecasts remain the same, the political turmoil in Venezuela could significantly affect energy markets. Instability in major oil-producing countries often leads to supply concerns and price spikes, a trend we have seen over the last twenty years. We believe holding call options on crude oil futures is a smart way to protect against sudden increases in energy prices. In the crypto market, AAVE is testing a key resistance level at $172, which has shaped its trading range for weeks. This resistance test occurs as the broader crypto market shows positive sentiment for the first time this year. A clear breakout above this level would signal a strong buy for call options, anticipating a significant price increase. Create your live VT Markets account and start trading now.

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