Investors face a choppy week as sticky U.S. inflation, weak manufacturing activity, and rising unemployment claims weigh on sentiment. The focus is now squarely on labor market data—today’s JOLTS report, followed by Thursday’s ADP and Friday’s NFP—which could shape the Fed’s September policy path. Meanwhile, Europe’s structural fragility keeps the euro under pressure, while safe-haven flows continue to boost gold.
- Labor market in focus: JOLTS, ADP, and NFP will shape Fed expectations.
- Manufacturing slump: ISM shows reshoring hasn’t fueled activity yet.
- Europe weak: Rising French and German yields highlight structural fragility.
- Safe havens: Gold strengthens as silver lags, reflecting defensive positioning.