US Stock Markets Show Mixed Performance Amid Economic Data Release
US stock markets concluded a mixed session on Friday, reacting to the release of key August employment figures. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 35,401 points, a decrease of 0.5% compared to the previous day’s close.
Shortly before the market’s close in New York, the broader S&P 500 was calculated at approximately 6,482 points, down 0.3%. The Nasdaq 100 registered at around 23,652 points, a slight decrease of 0.1%.
Investors were keenly awaiting the U.S. employment data for August, the first report issued under newly appointed leadership at the relevant statistical agency. The previous chief statistician was replaced in July following a directive from President Donald Trump who expressed concerns over revisions to previously released figures. The latest data revealed a more moderate impact on the U.S. economy compared to initial estimates, although job creation over the past three months has remained below 30,000 positions. The labor market even contracted in June, according to revised calculations. This development significantly increases the likelihood of interest rate reductions by the Federal Reserve and discussions are underway regarding the potential magnitude of such adjustments.
The euro strengthened against the US dollar on Friday evening, trading at $1.1718, with the dollar subsequently valued at €0.8534.
Gold prices saw a notable increase, reaching $3,590 per fine ounce (+1.2%). This translates to a price of €98.50 per gram.
Conversely, oil prices experienced a decline. Brent crude, a benchmark for North Sea oil, was priced at $65.67 per barrel, a decrease of $1.32, or 2.0% less than the previous day’s closing value.
