Jobs Report Preview, May 5, 2017
For the first time in 2017, the risks to tomorrow’s jobs report are balanced, as a “Too Hot” number will increase the possibility of more than three rate hikes in 2017 while a “Too Cold” number will fan worries about the pace of economic growth, and the ability for better economic growth to push stocks materially higher.
Here’s The Sevens Report traditional “Goldilocks” breakdown:
“Too Hot” Scenario (Potential for More than Three Rate Hikes in 2017)
- >250k Job Adds, < 4.6% Unemployment, > 2.9% YOY wage increase. A number this hot would likely reignite the debate over whether the Fed will hike more than three times this year.
- Likely Market Reaction: Withheld for subscribers. Unlock with a free trial at 7sReport.com.
“Just Right” Scenario (A June Rate Hike Becomes More Expected, But the Total Number of Expected Hikes Stays at Three)
- 125k–250k Job Adds, > 4.7% Unemployment Rate, 2.5%-2.8% YOY wage increase. This is the best-case scenario for stocks, as it would imply still-stable job growth, but not materially increase the chances for more than three rate hikes in 2017.
- Likely Market Reaction: Withheld for subscribers. Unlock with a free trial at 7sReport.com.
“Too Cold” Scenario (A June Rate Hike Becomes in Doubt)
- < 125k Job Adds. Given the recent unimpressive economic reports, a soft jobs number could cause a decent sell-off in equities. As the Washington policy outlook continues to dim, economic data needs to do more heavy lifting to support stocks. So, given the market’s focus on future growth, the bottom line is bad economic data still isn’t good for stocks.
- Likely Market Reaction: Withheld for subscribers. Unlock with a free trial at 7sReport.com.
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