— The U.S. economy added only 114,000 new jobs in July, a third less than expected, and unemployment rose to 4.3%, increasing fears of recession.
— U.S. wage growth slowed to just under 1% in the 2nd quarter, another sign that inflation may be cooling.
— The U.S. economy is closer to the point when an interest rate cut is warranted, said Fed Chair Powell; markets are pricing in a 100% probability of a rate cut in mid-September.
— The Bank of Japan raised its key interest rate to 0.25% from around zero, a level not seen since 2008 and an indication that country may be exiting from decades of disinflation.
— Global bond issuance to fund climate related and other sustainability projects could total nearly $1 trillion in 2024, although issuance fell 20% in the 2nd quarter, on fewer new entrants amid stronger regulatory scrutiny.
