Continuing claims were at the highest level since November 2021, a sign that workers are having trouble finding new positions after they are laid off.

Gold prices remained steady in early Asian trade, hovering around $3,339.22 per ounce, but are poised for a weekly decline due to a stronger dollar and positive U.S. economic data. U.S. retail sales exceeded expectations,

The dollar index (DXY00) today is up +0.35% at a 3.5-week high. Signs of strength in the US economy may keep the Fed from cutting interest rates and are supportive of the dollar. Weekly initial unemployment claims unexpectedly fell to a 3-month low,

U.S. retail sales rebounded more than expected in June, suggesting the economy was regaining momentum and giving the Federal Reserve cover to delay cutting interest rates while it gauges the inflation fallout from import tariffs.

The Dollar appreciates due to risk aversion amid global trade uncertainty. Speculation about Fed Chairman Powell’s resignation is supporting the US Dollar so far. Later today, US Jobless Claims and Retail Sales data will give further clues about the impact of tariffs on the US economy.

The dollar index (DXY00) on Thursday rose by +0.29% and posted a 3.5-week high. Signs of strength in the US economy may keep the Fed from cutting interest rates and are supportive of the dollar. Weekly initial unemployment claims unexpectedly fell to a 3-month low,

U.S. retail sales rebounded more than expected in June, suggesting a modest improvement in economic activity and giving the Federal Reserve cover to delay cutting interest rates while it gauges the inflation fallout from import tariffs.

Pre-market futures are flat this morning, again without much direction from outside influences. We’ve passed the 90-day tariff “deadline” with no ramifications; in fact, major indexes were up across the board,

London stocks ended higher on Thursday, buoyed by growing investor expectations of a Bank of England rate cut next month following recent soft UK labour market data.