The U.S. economy added only 22,000 jobs in August. This figure is far below the forecast of 75,000. Unemployment climbed to 4.3 percent, its highest point in over a year.
The weak report has fueled recession fears. It has also moved markets. Bitcoin surged past $113,000 before retreating. Stocks slipped as investors worried about slowing growth. According to Reuters, traders now expect the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates soon.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics confirmed just 22,000 new payrolls in August. That is nearly 70 percent below projections. At the same time, layoffs surged by 39 percent, hitting almost 86,000 job cuts.
Bloomberg reported that companies created just 1,494 new positions last month. That is the lowest figure in 16 years. The data shows clear weakness in labor demand. Many businesses are delaying hiring as consumer demand slows.
Stocks reacted quickly. The Dow Jones fell 363 points. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq also posted losses. Risk assets like Bitcoin and gold gained ground as investors looked for alternatives. Gold reached a record high of $3,580. Ethereum dropped back to $4,300 after a brief rally.
Traders now see an 89 percent chance of a Federal Reserve rate cut. Some expect two cuts this year. Bank of America has also revised its forecast, predicting easing to stabilize the economy.
Analysts warn that weak job creation may reduce consumer spending. This could further drag on growth. Experts point to reduced immigration as a factor behind slower labor supply. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has acknowledged this in recent remarks.
Despite risks, some investors believe crypto assets could benefit. Zach Pandl of Grayscale Research said sluggish labor data may support Bitcoin, as long as stocks remain stable. For now, markets remain volatile, and uncertainty is high.
**The U.S. jobs report signals rising unemployment and slowing growth. Recession fears are back in focus. Investors and policymakers now look to the Fed for the next move.**
