Gold and silver have traded about even through the first two days of what is shaping up to be a quiet week of trading thanks to the Christmas holiday falling on Wednesday. Yesterday saw gold and silver decline, but only slightly, while today gold and silver have made gains, but only minor ones.

US economic data for the week is light and so far has ended up not making any major impact on the precious metals market. In other news, the Japanese Nikkei Index is soaring on the back of increased easy money policies in the country. The positive run currently happening in Japan only complements the bullish run US stock markets have made over the past few weeks as worldwide investors seem increasingly keen on taking on risk.

Nikkei Index Surging

Throughout the course of this past year, the Bank of Japan has been employing all sorts of policies in an effort to stimulate the otherwise stagnating Japanese economy. Their efforts have paid off as the Nikkei Index is currently up by over 50% on the year. Though it is seemingly impossible that the Nikkei Index can keep up such an impressive run, investors are more than ecstatic with the massive gains they have reeled in over the past 11 months or so.

As we move into 2014 it will be wise to keep a close eye on the Nikkei Index as its continued impressive performance or possible collapse can end up having wider ramifications for the world marketplace.

Quiet Holiday Trading Atmosphere

Just like a snowfall brings about a feeling of calmness across a usually barren and unforgiving winter landscape, the approach of Christmas makes for a much quieter trading atmosphere both in the United States and around the world. With today being Christmas Eve, most people are out of the office and either visiting family or simply taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Gold and silver are both posting minor gains today, mostly attributed to short-covering. Tomorrow will be among the deadest day of the year and the same can probably be said about Thursday as well. Friday may bring about a busier world marketplace, but things really won’t be getting back to normal until the latter stages of next week, after the New Years holiday.