U.S. Indices Rise as Intel Jumps & Trump Halts EU Tariffs; Silver Drops

Despite a shortened trading week due to markets being closed on Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it has been an eventful period for traders and investors, with volatility emerging across multiple sectors.

U.S. markets have been driven higher from recent lows by a mix of factors, including President Donald Trump’s latest tariff developments tied to his pursuit of Greenland and renewed optimism ahead of significant tech earnings. At the same time, silver prices have retreated from recent highs as risk appetite improves.

Here are the latest developments across the financial and economic landscape:

TL;DR Key Highlights

• On Wednesday, 21 January 2026, Trump called off proposed tariffs on Europe after a  deal tied to Greenland

• Intel stock surges 11% on Wednesday, ahead of Q4 earnings (due today, Thursday), leading a chip sector rally

• Silver prices dropped as investors trimmed safe-haven bets

• The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all traded higher amid renewed market optimism during Wednesday’s regular session and in Thursday morning pre-market trading.

Key Developments

Trump Calls Off Tariffs After Greenland Framework Deal

U.S. President Donald Trump has shelved planned tariffs on European imports after a surprise agreement over a diplomatic and trade framework involving Greenland. The move eased investor concerns over a transatlantic trade war, bolstering equities and reducing demand for traditional safe havens.

Intel Shares Jump 11% on Earnings Optimism

Intel shares surged over 11% in Wednesday trading, settling at $54.00 ahead of the company’s Q4 2025 earnings release, which is scheduled for today after market close. Analysts cited optimism about Intel's server chip demand, the ramp-up of its 18A chip manufacturing process, and a recent HSBC upgrade that raised its price target to $50. The broader chip sector also rallied, with AMD and Nvidia posting gains. (Source: Nasdaq)

Silver Prices Retreat as Risk Appetite Returns

Silver prices dropped during Asian trading hours on Thursday amid easing geopolitical concerns in light of Trump’s easing stance over Greenland, reversing the record gains from earlier days.

Equities Climb Across Major U.S. Indices

All three major U.S. stock benchmarks rose, buoyed by easing trade tensions and optimism about earnings. The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all advanced, led by gains in tech and industrials. Futures also pointed to continued momentum as investors eye upcoming earnings from key tech firms.

Additional Context

Intel’s stock movement seems to reflect the growing confidence in its turnaround strategy under CEO Lip-Bu Tan, with investors focused on data-centre demand and manufacturing efficiency. 

Meanwhile, the silver price drop may underscore metals' sensitivity to geopolitical headlines. Previous U.S. gains in silver were attributed to elevated risk premiums and robust ETF demand, but this week’s sell-off may indicate broader repositioning.

Conclusion

This shortened trading week brought major catalysts: a surprise diplomatic resolution eased trade tensions, Intel’s stock soared on earnings optimism, and silver prices retreated as investors shifted away from safe-haven assets. These developments highlight the interplay between geopolitical moves and market reactions across asset classes.

*Past performance does not reflect future results. The above is for marketing and general informational purposes only, and are only projections and should not be taken as investment research, investment advice or a personal recommendation.