Equities rally despite robust employment figures as softer wage growth eases inflation concerns ahead of CPI data.
Major U.S. stock indices reached all-time highs, with the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Russell leading gains. The Dow and Equal Weight S&P trailed slightly but remained near peak levels. Markets shrugged off stronger-than-expected jobs data, focusing instead on softer wage growth, which tempered inflation fears.
Bond yields held steady at elevated levels, while commodities saw mixed moves. Oil rose $2 to $97.50, gold fell $50 to $4,665, and the VIX edged up $1. Geopolitical tensions, including the 11th week of the Iranian conflict, added to market uncertainty ahead of upcoming CPI releases.
Investors are balancing optimism over cooling wage pressures with caution over persistent geopolitical risks and inflation data due later this week.