Latest Finance-Economy News
U.S. February Jobs Report Shocks Market with 92,000 Job Losses
The U.S. economy unexpectedly lost 92,000 jobs in February, pushing unemployment to 4.4%, far below economist expectations of 50,000 job gains. This cooling labor market eases inflation pressures, potentially benefiting mortgage rates. However, global tensions counteract this effect.
Oil Prices Surge Toward $100 Amid U.S.-Iran Conflict
Traders warn oil could hit $100 per barrel as the Iran war disrupts Strait of Hormuz shipping, halting 20% of global oil supplies. West Texas Intermediate crude surged 12.2% to over $90 last week. This fuels inflation fears across energy, transportation, and consumer goods.
U.S. Economy Forecast to Reaccelerate in 2026 with Fiscal Stimulus
UCLA Anderson predicts 3% GDP growth in 2026 from income tax cuts, AI investments, and moderated tariffs via Supreme Court ruling. Fiscal expansion like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to add 0.5-1% to GDP. Risks shift from contraction to overheating.
Iran War Disrupts 20% Global Oil, Triggers Market Declines
The 2026 Iran conflict closed the Strait of Hormuz, spiking Brent crude 10-13% to $80-82/barrel. Stock markets plunged: Dow fell 400+ points, Nikkei over 2%, KSE 100 down 9.57%. Aviation and tourism hit by Gulf airspace closures.
Mortgage Rates Hover at 6% Amid Jobs Data and Geopolitical Tensions
Freddie Mac reports average 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 6%, up slightly from 5.98%. Weak jobs data suggests cooling inflation aiding rates, but Middle East tensions drive energy prices higher. Expect continued choppiness short-term.
Crypto Firm Kraken Secures Fed Master Account
Wyoming-based Kraken, a Special Purpose Depository Institution, received Federal Reserve master account approval. This milestone boosts crypto integration into traditional banking. Enhances operational capabilities for the exchange.
Upcoming US CPI Data to Drive Fed Rate Expectations
March 11 US CPI y/y forecast at 2.2% (prev 2.4%), core m/m at 0.2% (prev 0.3%). As top market-mover, surprises could spike volatility in USD, Treasuries, equities. Influences Fed cut probabilities.
Eurozone CPI and ECB Policy in Focus March 11
Eurozone CPI y/y steady at 1.9% forecast. Critical for ECB decisions; deviations may jolt EUR/USD, European stocks. Near ECB target heightens sensitivity.
US Core PCE Inflation Gauge Due March 13
Fed's preferred Core PCE y/y at 2.8% forecast (prev 3.0%). Key for price stability assessment, likely triggers USD asset volatility and portfolio shifts. High impact event.
Global Markets Brace for Volatile Week on Iran Conflict
U.S.-Iran war drives oil/gas higher, overshadowing U.S. data. Expect turbulence in equities, currencies amid energy shocks. Geopolitical risks amplify inflation concerns.
QatarEnergy Declares Force Majeure on LNG Amid War
Iran war prompts Qatar to declare Force Majeure, halting gas liquefaction; restart takes weeks. Pushes global gas prices up, targeting pressure on economies. Asia bears 59% LNG imports brunt.
Fed March Decision Markets Price No Cut
Robinhood prediction markets show 98¢ odds Fed maintains rates on March 18, 2026, vs 3¢ for 25bps cut. Reflects sticky inflation from oil surge. Influences broader rate expectations.