Stock Market Insights for 2025: Apple Nears $4T, Netflix Sets NFL Streaming Record, and Key Merger Updates

Market highlights for December 27, 2024

As the stock market prepares to open, futures are showing a slight downturn. Apple’s shares are gaining momentum as its market value approaches the $4 trillion mark. Netflix has shattered streaming records with its NFL broadcasts on Christmas Day. Meanwhile, UnitedHealth Group and Amedisys have extended the deadline for their $3.3 billion merger amid regulatory scrutiny. Additionally, KULR Technology Group is expanding its gains following a significant bitcoin acquisition worth $21 million. Here’s what investors need to know today.

1. Stock Futures Dip While Treasury Yields Climb

Pre-market trading on Friday signals a modest decline in stock futures, following mixed results from major indices on Thursday. The Dow Jones futures are down approximately 0.3%, despite the Dow’s prior session gains. Both Nasdaq and S&P 500 futures also reflect a 0.3% decrease. Treasury yields continue to rise, with the 10-year note surpassing 4.6%. Bitcoin is trading near $96,600, gold futures have risen above $2,600 per ounce, and oil futures show slight increases.

2. Apple’s Market Capitalization Approaches $4 Trillion

Apple (AAPL) shares climbed to a record high on Thursday, fueled by optimism over an AI-driven upgrade cycle. Wedbush analysts increased their price target to $325, suggesting a potential 25% gain from the previous close of $259.02. With a 34% gain year-to-date, Apple is on track to reach a $4 trillion market cap milestone.

3. Netflix Breaks NFL Streaming Viewership Records

Netflix (NFLX) announced record-breaking streaming numbers for its Christmas Day NFL broadcasts. Both games surpassed previous NFL streaming records set by NBCUniversal Peacock last season. Nielsen reported a peak viewership of 27 million, boosted by Beyoncé’s halftime show during the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans game.

4. KULR Technology Gains Momentum After Bitcoin Investment

KULR Technology Group (KULR) shares surged over 12% in pre-market trading after hitting a record high on Thursday. The company invested $21 million in bitcoin as part of its newly launched "Bitcoin Treasury" strategy, aiming to allocate up to 90% of surplus cash into digital currency.

5. UnitedHealth and Amedisys Push Merger Deadline Amid Regulatory Review

UnitedHealth Group (UNH) and Amedisys (AMED) have agreed to extend their $3.3 billion merger deadline into 2025. This follows antitrust regulators’ efforts to block the deal, citing concerns over competition in home health services. The new deadline is set for 10 days after a final court ruling or December 31, 2025, whichever comes first. Amedisys shares rose over 3% in pre-market trading, while UnitedHealth’s shares remained stable.

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