Markets Tread Carefully Ahead of Jobs Data

Market News – July 3, 2025

Markets were cautiously higher Wednesday as investors braced for a crucial U.S. jobs report and digested a slew of political and policy-driven headlines. From new trade deals and fiscal proposals to inflation signals and bond market jitters, the day was rich with cross-asset signals.

S&P 500 & Nasdaq Edge Higher Amid Trade Deal Optimism

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq both closed at fresh record highs midweek, as upbeat sentiment from a preliminary U.S.–Vietnam trade agreement—coupled with strong Apple, Tesla, Nike, and Nvidia activity—drove technology names forward  .

Despite the rally, Asian markets remained cautious ahead of the Friday nonfarm payrolls release, with private-sector jobs already showing weakness—a sign of potential labor market cool-off.

Trump’s Vietnam Deal: Dynamic Trade Shift

In what analysts call a quieter outcome than earlier tariff threats, the deal sets a 20% tariff on Vietnamese exports to the U.S., while U.S. goods retain zero tariffs. Shares in Nike and similar apparel manufacturers spiked on the news—a sign of relief in supply chain–sensitive sectors  .

Asia-Pacific stocks followed suit, but U.S. futures remained flat—markets are hesitant until the deal’s details and tariff deadlines (like July 9) are clarified.

Oil Softens, Bonds Advance on Macro Concerns

After a sharp 3% rally on Tuesday—sparked by geopolitical tensions including Iran’s suspension of nuclear cooperation—oil prices backed off Thursday. Investors were spooked by signs of fading U.S. demand and looming tariff risk  .

At the same time, Treasury yields eased, with the 10-year yield pulling back to around 4.27%, as investors recalibrated expectations around Fed policy and federal debt dynamics.

Dollar Weakness Supports Risk Plays

A softer U.S. dollar—trading near three-year lows—has helped prop up equities and commodities. The decline reflects dovish sentiment ahead of payrolls and the uncertainty surrounding Federal Reserve Chair Powell’s path amid trade volatility.

What’s Next: Payrolls, Tariffs & Fiscal Watch

All eyes now turn to Friday’s U.S. nonfarm payrolls, where expectations are for a 110,000 gain and a slight rise in unemployment to 4.3%. A weak report could bolster the Fed’s case for rate cuts later this year  .

Markets will also monitor the July 9 tariff deadline, further developments on tax‑and‑spending proposals in Washington, and fresh remarks from Chair Powell—any of which could shift sentiment dramatically  .

Investor Outlook

Market momentum holds, but optimism is fragile. Trade progress and a cooler dollar support risk assets, yet inaction by the Fed and possible labor-market softness could reverse sentiment quickly. Proceed with a balance of opportunity and caution.

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