US stocks remained near all-time highs as investors analyzed the June jobs report, which will influence Federal Reserve rate cut decisions. The S&P 500 slipped after reaching a record close, while the Dow Jones fell and the Nasdaq gained. The US economy added 206,000 jobs in June, surpassing expectations, but the unemployment rate rose to 4.1%, signaling a cooling job market. This has bolstered the idea of easing inflation and potential Fed interest rate cuts. The 10-year Treasury yield also decreased. Investors are debating whether the slowing job growth reflects a labor market normalization or early signs of an economic slowdown. The UK Labour Party's election win and the US presidential election's potential impact on markets are also being monitored. Samsung Electronics' quarterly profit surged, boosting tech stocks. Despite stronger than expected job growth, stocks are heading towards all-time highs, with a focus on Fed rate cut prospects. The Dow and S&P 500 struggled for direction as investors assessed mixed payrolls data for cues on the Fed's policy easing pace. Fed officials are prioritizing a strong labor market as inflation cools, making the jobs report a cautionary moment. Unemployment has steadily increased over the past year, indicating a tougher job market. The jobs report hasn't significantly altered investors' expectations for Fed policy for the rest of the year. Overall, the stock market is returning after the July Fourth holiday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq touching record highs while the Dow slips.
