Yesterday's breather was short-lived, as Wall Street once again resumed its Santa Claus rally. The Dow and Nasdaq both popped triple digits, while the S&P 500 posted a modest rise with help from semiconductor stocks. Meanwhile, Wall Street's "fear gauge," the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) reversed its gains after hitting its highest level in a month.

OIL PRICES FALL FOR FIRST SESSION IN FOUR

Oil prices fell after three-straight days of gains, after Angola’s decision withdraw its membership from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+). West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for February delivery dropped 33 cents, or 0.4%, to settle at $73.89 a barrel. 

Gold prices rose today, with February-dated gold futures rising $3.60, or 18 cents%, to settle at $2,051.30 per ounce. 

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