U.S. Adds 177,000 Jobs in April, Beating Forecasts — Healthcare and E-Commerce Lead Gains as Wage Growth Cools, Easing Inflation Concerns

In April, the U.S. economy added 177,000 non-farm jobs, surpassing market expectations and signaling continued strength in the labor market. Job growth was led by the healthcare sector and e-commerce logistics, which remained key drivers of employment. The unemployment rate held steady at 4.2%. Notably, the pace of average hourly wage growth slowed, a trend that could help stabilize inflation and give the Federal Reserve more flexibility in setting future interest rate policy.

U.S. GDP Shrinks 0.3% in Q1 2025

The U.S. economy stumbled at the start of 2025, with first-quarter GDP contracting at an annualized rate of 0.3%. Meanwhile, inflation rose to 3.5%, fueling fresh concerns about stagflation—a troubling mix of slowing growth and rising prices. A sharp shift in trade policy, coupled with a surge in imports, played a major role in dragging down economic performance.

The Federal Reserve now faces a difficult balancing act: whether to cut interest rates to stimulate growth or maintain higher rates to keep inflation in check. Diverging opinions across financial markets reflect the growing uncertainty, as inflation expectations climb and consumer data sends mixed signals.

Adding to the complexity are rising global tariff risks and a strengthening U.S. dollar, both of which could further strain the economic outlook. Investors and global markets will be keeping a close eye on how the U.S. navigates these mounting challenges in the months ahead.

U.S. Core PCE Falls to 2.6% in March — Investors Eye Fed Rate Cut Amid Cooling Inflation

U.S. core PCE inflation cooled to 2.6% year-over-year in March, marking its lowest level in 2024 so far and signaling a notable easing of inflationary pressure. With the data reinforcing expectations for a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in June, investor focus is shifting. Strong consumer spending combined with a declining savings rate highlights both underlying risks and room for policy adjustment. These developments could have meaningful implications for the market outlook, making it critical for investors to stay alert to shifts in economic momentum and central bank strategy.

Oil Prices Plunge in April 2025 — Biggest Drop in Four Years Amid Escalating US-China Trade Tensions and OPEC+ Supply Surge

In April 2025, oil prices recorded their steepest monthly drop since 2021, driven by escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, downgraded demand forecasts, and increased output from OPEC+. As investors pulled out of the oil market, fears over the long-term outlook for energy intensified. With crude prices under sustained pressure, many analysts believe it’s time to reassess energy investment strategies from the ground up.

US Dollar Rises Against Yen Amid Market Volatility, with Focus on Bank of Japan Policy and Economic Data

The US dollar has recently gained ground against the Japanese yen, driven by weak Japanese economic data and growing uncertainty ahead of the Bank of Japan’s upcoming policy decision. USD/JPY is currently trading near the 142 level, with market participants closely monitoring any signals that could hint at a possible rate hike by the BOJ. Additionally, investors are keeping an eye on developments in US-Japan trade talks, which could influence short-term currency movements. For now, the pair is expected to fluctuate within a range of 141.50 to 144.00, with future trends likely shaped by economic indicators and central bank actions. Stay tuned for in-depth USD/JPY trend analysis and the latest forex market updates.

U.S. Bond Market Volatility Spurs Investor Concerns as Foreign Holders Cut Back and Yields Rise, Challenging Safe-Haven Status

The recent surge in U.S. Treasury volatility, combined with foreign investors pulling back and yields climbing sharply, is raising serious questions about Treasuries’ long-held status as a “risk-free asset.” With inflation pressures lingering and policy uncertainty mounting, the market is being forced to reassess the true risk profile of government bonds. For investors, this environment underscores the need to re-evaluate asset allocation strategies to navigate shifting conditions.