The S&P/TSX Composite Index dipped by approximately 0.2%, dropping below the 31,800 level on Wednesday, influenced by declining gold prices during its final trading session of the year. This commodity-heavy index was particularly impacted by mining shares, as investors opted to secure profits following the previous session's upticks in gold. In contrast, oil producers benefited from stronger crude oil prices, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions and persisting supply concerns. Trading volumes remained light, as market participants anticipated the upcoming New Year holiday. Despite this late-year dip, the TSX has surged nearly 29% in 2025, marking its strongest annual performance since 2009 and securing a third consecutive year of gains.