Investors end the year with surprises, reminiscent of April’s market crash. Gold prices hit a record high, up 70% this year with 51 record highs. Copper prices also reached a record high, up 30%. The S&P 500 is at a record high, while traditional defensive metals soar.

Investment strategist Mary Ann Bartels bullish on gold with $4,000 target. Surprised by gold’s rise, along with silver and copper breaking out to all-time highs. Metal stocks are benefitting from the bullish trend. Bartels shares insights on the market on Yahoo Finance’s Morning Brief.

Investing experts express surprise over lack of expected inflation and slower blockchain and crypto development. Legislative changes needed for progress. Focus shifts to 2026 with anticipation of market structure bill in the US Senate for digital assets. Insights can guide investors for the upcoming year.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: 3 big surprises that caught stock market pros off guard in 2025