Key Takeaways
- South Korea's consumer confidence remained robust in December 2025, staying above the neutral level for an eighth consecutive month, signaling sustained economic optimism.
- National Economic Council (NEC) Director Kevin Hassett indicated that the President has a strong roster of candidates for the next Federal Reserve Chair.
- Hassett also stated that the "skyrocketing" prices of precious metals are due to sound underlying reasons, reflecting investor concerns over economic stability and monetary policy.
- Silver has recently surged to record highs, topping $65 per ounce, with gold also firming amidst expectations of potential shifts in monetary policy and a weaker dollar.
National Economic Council (NEC) Director Kevin Hassett recently commented on the ongoing search for the next Federal Reserve Chair and offered insights into the significant rally in precious metals. His remarks come as South Korea's consumer confidence continues to demonstrate resilience, pointing to sustained economic stability in the Asian nation.
South Korea's Consumer Confidence Holds Strong
South Korea's consumer confidence has maintained a positive trajectory, remaining above the neutral level for an eighth consecutive month in December 2025. This sustained optimism signals a healthy economic outlook for the country. The Composite Consumer Sentiment Index (CCSI) stood at 112.40 points in November 2025, an increase from 109.80 points in October, with a score above 100 indicating an improving outlook. Preliminary data for December showed the overall index flattening at 107, still well above the neutral threshold.
This consistent confidence suggests that South Korean consumers are optimistic about their current living standards, prospective household income, and future spending plans. The trend reflects underlying economic stability and potentially effective policy measures.
Hassett on the Federal Reserve Chair Succession
Kevin Hassett, a prominent economic advisor, stated that the President has "a bunch of great Fed chair candidates" to consider. Hassett himself is widely regarded as a leading contender to succeed current Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, whose term is set to expire in May 2026.
Hassett, who also served as the director of the National Economic Council since January 2025, is known for his support of pro-growth tax cuts and looser regulatory policies. His economic philosophy aligns closely with President Trump's stated desire for a more accommodating monetary policy and lower interest rates. Financial markets are keenly watching this selection process, with some expressing skepticism about the next chair's potential approach to monetary policy.
Precious Metals "Skyrocketing" for Good Reason
In addition to his comments on the Fed Chair, Hassett acknowledged that precious metals are "skyrocketing" for "good reason". This surge is largely attributed to investor concerns over potential currency debasement in the face of high fiscal deficits, fears of inflation, and the anticipation of a more dovish stance from the Federal Reserve under new leadership.
Silver (XAG) has been a standout performer, recently hitting new record highs above $65 per ounce. This marks a significant increase, with some reports indicating a 2.5% surge to $57.85 in early December, following a 5.5% jump in the prior session. Gold (XAU) has also firmed, with spot prices rising to $4,321.56 per ounce. Beyond hedging against economic uncertainties, industrial demand for silver, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles and solar panels, is also contributing to its upward price momentum.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.