The labor market showed unexpected resilience last month, with the U.S. adding 162,000 jobs, outpacing most forecasts and reinforcing the narrative of a still‑robust economy. In response, President Trump is pressing the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates at its September meeting, arguing that cheaper borrowing is essential for continued growth. He also warned that if the Fed refuses to ease policy, the administration could retaliate by restricting trade with several nations, using tariff leverage to force concessions on large trade surpluses. The remarks signal a heightened political push to influence monetary policy and signal potential trade escalations that could reshape market expectations.
The U.S. economy added 162,000 jobs last month, a stronger-than-expected showing. And now President Trump wants to see interest rates dropped, threatening to cut off trade with several countries if the Federal Reserve doesn’t budge at its September meeting. “Without the United States agreeing to allow them their big surpluses, and we could stop that...
