Data released on Friday showed the US economy added 236,000 jobs in March, the smallest gain in over two years. Analysts at Wells Fargo point out this is the type of employment report they believe the Federal Reserve wants to see: job growth slowing in an orderly fashion, labor supply expanding and wage growth that is edging closer to rates that are consistent with the central bank's 2% inflation target. They expected another rate hike by 25 bps in May, probably the last one.
Job growth slows from hot to warm
“The employment report can be added to the growing list of indicators that suggest the labor market is softening directionally. While the level of many labor market gauges remain impressive, the weaker direction suggests the FOMC has the end of the tightening cycle within sight.”
“We continue to expect the FOMC will raise the fed funds rate by an additional 25 bps points on May 3 as the trend in inflation has not yet turned convincingly lower.”
“With the effects of policy tightening to date beginning to more clearly seep through to the jobs market, it may prove to be the final hike this cycle as the FOMC becomes more convinced the economy is softening sufficiently to keep inflation firmly on a downward path.”
Information on these pages contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Markets and instruments profiled on this page are for informational purposes only and should not in any way come across as a recommendation to buy or sell in these assets. You should do your own thorough research before making any investment decisions. FXStreet does not in any way guarantee that this information is free from mistakes, errors, or material misstatements. It also does not guarantee that this information is of a timely nature. Investing in Open Markets involves a great deal of risk, including the loss of all or a portion of your investment, as well as emotional distress. All risks, losses and costs associated with investing, including total loss of principal, are your responsibility. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of FXStreet nor its advertisers. The author will not be held responsible for information that is found at the end of links posted on this page.
If not otherwise explicitly mentioned in the body of the article, at the time of writing, the author has no position in any stock mentioned in this article and no business relationship with any company mentioned. The author has not received compensation for writing this article, other than from FXStreet.
FXStreet and the author do not provide personalized recommendations. The author makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this information. FXStreet and the author will not be liable for any errors, omissions or any losses, injuries or damages arising from this information and its display or use. Errors and omissions excepted.
The author and FXStreet are not registered investment advisors and nothing in this article is intended to be investment advice.
Recommended content
Editors’ Picks
EUR/USD holds above 1.0750 to start the week
EUR/USD trades in positive territory above 1.0750 in the European session on Monday. The US Dollar struggles to find demand following Friday's disappointing labor market data and helps the pair hold its ground.
GBP/USD edges higher toward 1.2600
Following Friday's volatile action, GBP/USD pushes higher toward 1.2600 on Monday. Soft April jobs report from the US and the modest improvement seen in risk mood make it difficult for the US Dollar to gather strength.
Gold rebounds above $2,310 after downbeat NFP data, eyes on Fedspeak
Gold price trades in positive territory above $2,310 after closing the previous week in the red. The weaker-than-expected US employment data have boosted the odds of a September Fed rate cut, hurting the USD and helping XAU/USD find support.
Addressing the crypto investor dilemma: To invest or not? Premium
Bitcoin price trades around $63,000 with no directional bias. The consolidation has pushed crypto investors into a state of uncertainty. Investors can expect a bullish directional bias above $70,000 and a bearish one below $50,000.
Week ahead: BoE and RBA decisions headline a calm week
Bank of England meets on Thursday, unlikely to signal rate cuts. Reserve Bank of Australia could maintain a higher-for-longer stance. Elsewhere, Bank of Japan releases summary of opinions.