Stock Market Awaits Key Jobs Report as Gold Shines and Global Markets Rally
Investors brace for a pivotal U.S. jobs report that could reshape Federal Reserve rate-cut expectations. S&P 500 futures inch upward after another record close, while gold's rally underscores growing market unease. The precious metal's 30% annual gain reflects a flight to safety as Treasury yields decline and political pressures mount.
Market Optimism faces its first real test with Friday's nonfarm payrolls data. A projected 75,000 job increase would confirm labor market cooling, but weaker numbers might force recalibration of Fed policy expectations. Gold's surge past $3,570/oz signals deepening investor skepticism about central bank independence.