Global stock markets experienced subdued trading on December 26 due to widespread holidays, including Boxing Day and the upcoming New Year. Major exchanges in Australia, Hong Kong, and Europe were closed. U.S. benchmarks neared record highs, while precious metals saw gains. Asian markets, including Japan's Nikkei 225, South Korea's Kospi, and China's CSI 300, closed higher. Australia's Sydney stock exchange will close only on New Year's Day, January 1.