The S&P closes at a record high as the rebound continues from the Omicron-induced sell-off, ahead of what’s expected to be thin trade in a reduced festive session here in Europe. A major U.K. study indicates Omicron is up to 70% less likely to send patients to hospital – but the Health Secretary says it’s too soon to know the next steps, as COVID cases hit record levels. Russia and the U.S. will hold talks over Ukraine within weeks, amid what Moscow claims are existential threats from NATO. And, Peter Parker saves the day for Hollywood, as Spiderman: No Way Home crosses $800 million at the global box office – while Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson tells CNBC the pandemic has changed things.

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