On December 20, 2017, gold prices gained slightly due to uncertainty around U.S. tax cuts while zinc oxide output in China faced reductions from a natural gas shortage. Nickel prices dropped on profit booking after a rally following changes to China's steel export duties, while oil prices rose amid expectations of declining U.S. crude inventories and a pipeline outage in the North Sea. The report provides an overview of precious metals and energy trends alongside trading recommendations and disclaimers regarding investment risks.