Fed rate cuts says more than we can expect
The U.S. labor market staged its strongest rebound in over a year, with nonfarm payrolls rising by +178K in March, reversing February’s contraction. Gains were concentrated in healthcare (+76K), construction (+26K), transportation (+21K), and manufacturing (+15K), while federal government (–18K) and financial activities (–15K) shed jobs. The unemployment rate edged down to 4.3%, defying expectations, though labor force participation slipped below 62%—a post-pandemic low.
Wage growth moderated to +3.5%yoy, the weakest since May 2021, signaling easing pressures. Despite the upbeat headline, risks loom from the escalating Iran conflict, which threatens supply chains and global stability. The Federal Reserve is likely to pause further easing, adopting a cautious stance amid heightened uncertainty. March’s data underscores resilience but also fragility, as geopolitical tensions could quickly erode momentum. The labor market’s strength offers temporary relief, yet the outlook remains clouded by external shocks and policy hesitation.
Bursa Malaysia appoints CFO Azizan Abdul Aziz as Islamic capital market director, reinforcing focus on…
Huawei unveils FusionSolar9.0 in Malaysia, introducing AI‑powered, grid‑stabilising solar technology to boost clean energy transition…
Private markets remain resilient but face mounting pressure from higher rates, weak exits, concentrated AI…
Fomca urges government transparency on Budget 2026 cuts, warning healthcare reductions could harm patients, staff,…
PETRONAS and ENEOS renew LNG partnership, securing 10% stake in MLNG Tiga to strengthen energy…
UAE exits OPEC+, weakening spare capacity control and signaling shift toward capacity-driven competition, raising volatility…
This website uses cookies.