Wall Street Ends Week Lower as Weak Jobs Data Hits Investor Sentiment
New York: US stocks finished the week sharply lower, with the S&P 500 sliding 1.6% as disappointing employment data and stretched market valuations prompted investors to scale back risk exposure.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq Composite also ended in the red, extending a week marked by volatility and renewed fears over the strength of the US labor market.
Analysts say the data raise questions about the Federal Reserve’s next move on interest rates, as slowing job growth signals potential economic cooling.
“The market’s rally had been running hot. Weak jobs data provided the reality check investors were waiting for,” said a New York-based fund strategist.
💼 Jobs Report Misses Expectations
Labor Department figures showed that job creation fell short of forecasts, while wage growth slowed modestly — suggesting that the post-pandemic hiring surge may be fading.
The numbers sparked renewed debate about whether the Fed can maintain its tightening stance without tipping the economy into a mild recession.
📊 Sector Impact
Technology and consumer discretionary stocks led losses, while energy shares provided limited support amid steady crude oil prices. Treasury yields eased slightly as traders priced in the possibility of a pause in rate hikes.
🌍 Global Market Reaction
Global equities mirrored the cautious tone, with European and Asian markets also closing lower. Analysts expect short-term volatility to persist as investors digest a mix of economic data and corporate earnings next week.
