The ASX 200 closed at 8465 after a 0.4% drop, influenced by strong US market performance and geopolitical tensions in Asia. While Australian banks and resource stocks have thrived, the upcoming "Santa Claus rally" may provide the needed momentum into January.In the US, the Nasdaq 100 reached record highs, buoyed by robust economic conditions, with projections aiming for 21,500. Bitcoin is consolidating around $95,943, with potential dips seen as buying opportunities, while oil prices remain range-bound between $66 and $72.50 amid OPEC+ production cuts and Middle Eastern uncertainties.