Global Market: US weekly jobless claims drop more than expected

US unemployment claims saw a sharper-than-expected drop last week, signaling continued labor market strength. Despite this positive sign, a rise in continuing claims suggests employers are cautious about hiring, potentially impacting job seekers, especially recent graduates facing competition from AI. The median unemployment duration has also lengthened, indicating a tougher job search for many.

US Stock Market: Fed’s Goolsbee sees early signs of relief in services inflation, says core price pressures remain elevated

Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee said the latest US inflation data shows some improvement in services inflation, but underlying price pressures remain elevated. He stressed inflation is still the main concern over labour market strength. He reiterated data dependence on policy decisions, highlighting tariffs and energy costs as temporary inflation drivers.

Quote of the day by David Swensen: “If you’re investing with a long time horizon, having an equity bias makes sense; stocks go up in the long run”

David Swensen emphasised the importance of maintaining an equity bias for long-term investors, noting that stocks tend to deliver stronger returns over extended horizons. Despite short-term volatility, equities reward patience and discipline. His advice highlights the value of staying invested, avoiding market timing, and aligning portfolios with long-term financial goals.