What Friday's jobs report could mean for investors
The July readings for nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate come amid mixed signals about the health of the labor market.
AI Summary
Friday's jobs report is expected to show nonfarm payroll growth between 18,000 and 83,000, with the unemployment rate holding at 4.2% or possibly ticking up to 4.3%. A steady unemployment rate may keep investors calm, but a softer report could signal the Fed might raise rates up to three times this year, while futures markets expect only one hike. Vanguard forecasts unemployment could reach 4.6% by year-end, adding to uncertainty.