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.

Global Market: Core inflation in Tokyo accelerates as energy-driven price pressures begin to broaden

Tokyo’s core inflation surged in June, driven by rising energy costs stemming from the Middle East conflict. This acceleration signals broadening price pressures, prompting the Bank of Japan to consider further interest rate hikes. While some economists express caution about the extent of these pressures, the central bank is closely monitoring the situation as it…

IMF chief economist says Fed reduction in rate guidance is ‘entirely appropriate’

The IMF’s chief economist, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, has endorsed Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s move to reduce explicit forward guidance on monetary policy. Gourinchas stated that overly rigid guidance proved costly when inflation surged, as it tied the Fed’s hands. While acknowledging the need for some long-term market guidance, he believes explicit, strong commitments are no…