At the end of last week, the US dollar weakened slightly against the basket of major currencies. On Friday, mixed data on the US labor market for September were published. Thus, the number of people employed in the nonfarm sector slowed down to 134K, while investors expected a value of 185K. The growth of average hourly wages met market expectations and counted to 0.3% (m/m). Meanwhile, the unemployment rate fell from 3.9% to 3.7%. The US dollar index (#DX) closed in the negative zone (-0.10%). In general, the demand for the US currency is still high.
The British pound strengthened against the US dollar after statements by the EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, that they were ready to offer the UK a “unique” deal that was better and more beneficial than the previous one. However, it is not yet known whether Theresa May agrees to the new conditions.
The “black gold” prices have been declining. At the moment, futures for the WTI crude oil are testing a mark of $73.75 per barrel.
Market Indicators
On Friday, aggressive sales were observed in the US stock market: #SPY (-0.56%), #DIA (-0.72%), #QQQ (-1.22%).
At the moment, the 10-year US government bonds yield is at the level of 3.23-3.24%.
The news feed on 2018.10.08:
Today, the publication of important economic news is not expected.
