Hot jobs report cements a Fed rate hold this month — and possibly the foreseeable future
Published On Jan 10, 2025, 9:48 AM
Recent labor market data shows that the U.S. economy added 256,000 new jobs in December, significantly higher than the expected 165,000. The unemployment rate fell to 4.1%. The strong jobs report suggests the Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut interest rates in January or perhaps even for a while longer, amidst concerns about persistent inflation and economic growth. This raises uncertainty about future rate cuts, with current expectations now leaning towards a cautious approach in light of new evidence of economic strength.
Stock Forecasts
SPY
Negative
Given the strengthened labor market data and the implications for monetary policy, companies in sectors sensitive to interest rates, such as real estate and utilities, may face pressures if the Fed maintains a tighter policy. Conversely, consumer staples and healthcare stocks often perform well in such environments.
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