Stocks Flat on Strong Jobs Data, Meta Soars on Budget Cuts

Treasuries experienced a decline as new jobless claims in the US unexpectedly fell to their lowest level since 2022, indicating a tightening labor market ahead of the Federal Reserve's upcoming rate decision. This drop in claims suggests that employers are retaining workers despite economic uncertainties.

The stock market showed positive movement on December 4, 2025, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 indices leading gains following Meta's announcement of job cuts and a report indicating the lowest jobless claims since 2021. This development reflects a response to ongoing economic conditions and corporate strategies in the tech sector.

US equity futures are maintaining gains as discussions arise regarding Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent potentially leading the National Economic Council alongside his current role, contingent on President Trump's expected nomination of Kevin Hassett as the next Federal Reserve chair. This development comes amid ongoing labor market data analysis.

European stocks rose on optimism that the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates, driven by indications of a slowdown in the US labor market. This sentiment reflects a broader trend of positive market reactions to potential monetary easing.

Silver prices have remained near an all-time high following the release of US payroll data, which has strengthened expectations for an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in its upcoming policy meeting. Gold prices showed little change during this period.

Asian stocks opened higher, reflecting gains in US markets as new data indicated a slowing job market, bolstering expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut next week.

Meta has recruited a senior designer from Apple, Dye, to enhance its efforts in developing artificial intelligence-powered glasses, a move that aligns with Mark Zuckerberg's vision of wearable technology replacing smartphones. This strategic hire underscores Meta's commitment to advancing its AI capabilities in the competitive tech landscape.

Gold prices have extended their gains following the release of weaker U.S. private payroll data, which has bolstered expectations for a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in December. This development reflects a growing sentiment among investors who are reacting to the labor market's performance.