Asset class performance 2025

Let’s compare the indices performances with some other classes. Below follows an overview of Simply Ethical. 

Looking at the performance of major asset classes, key indices exhibited varied performances as markets digested macroeconomic, geopolitical, and sector-specific drivers. UK FTSE 100 finished December positive, contributing 2.45% to a 25.8% yearly gain in 2025, outperforming many peers on strong mining and defence gains and rate-cut optimism. China’s Shanghai Composite was up 1.4% in December with broader 2025 returns up to 18.4% on renewed growth signals. The U.S. equity market benchmark S&P 500 rose 0.6% supported by AI tech enthusiasm while European equity market Euronext 100 ended the month 1% up.

The benchmark for shariah-compliant investments, DJ Islamic market index, surged 0.73% as overall performance mirrored broader market uptrends while Japan Nikkei 225 index gained by 0.30% in the month. In response to easing narrative around monetary policies, yields moved lower that helped DJ Sukuk Index end the month with 0.2% upside. Gold continued to shine as a strong bet for safe haven with 2.31% surge, adding to yearly gain of 65%. Lastly, UK pound gained 1.81% against US dollar.

The following snapshot provides a detailed breakdown of the performance of different asset classes in December 2025, as well as their progress year-to-date, offering a comprehensive overview of market dynamics during a period marked by both optimism and lingering uncertainty.

Source: Simply Ethical