Keyword → employment

Federal Reserve Maintains Rates at 3.50-3.75% as Markets Price in Mid-Year Easing

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady in its range of 3.50-3.75 percent at its January 2026 meeting, pausing its easing cycle after three consecutive cuts in late 2025. Market participants are now pricing increased probability of rate cuts beginning in April or June as employment data suggests greater labor market cooling than previously recognized.

U.S. Private Payrolls Add Meager 22,000 Jobs in January, Signaling Labor Market Deterioration

Private sector employment increased by just 22,000 positions in January according to ADP's National Employment Report, falling well below economist expectations of 45,000 and marking the weakest monthly gain since late 2020. The data reveals a bifurcated labor market with healthcare adding 74,000 jobs while professional services shed 57,000 positions.