Core Insights - The article discusses the current fluctuations in the gold market and the potential impact of Trump's tariff measures on gold prices [1] - It raises questions about whether the recent trend will continue after a pullback [1] Group 1 - Gold is experiencing volatility, with ongoing analysis regarding its market behavior [1] - The influence of Trump's tariff policies on the gold market is a focal point of discussion [1] - There is a live analysis session being conducted by a team member, indicating active engagement in market trends [1]

Group 1 - The Vice President of the United States, Vance, criticized Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, stating that while Powell is a decent person, he has been wrong on almost all matters, particularly in addressing inflation issues caused by former President Biden and responding to trade agreements under the Trump administration [1][3]. - Federal Reserve Governor Waller defended the independence of the Federal Reserve, emphasizing that its structure has withstood the test of time and should be preserved to ensure objective and non-partisan policy-making, which is crucial for economic stability and reducing inflation [3]. - Powell warned that if Trump's tariffs remain at current levels, it could delay the Federal Reserve's ability to achieve its mandated goals, leading to higher inflation risks and increased unemployment [3][5]. Group 2 - Powell, who was nominated by Trump in 2017 and re-nominated by Biden in 2022, has faced criticism from Trump, who has previously urged for interest rate cuts and threatened Powell's position [5]. - The Federal Reserve decided to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 4.25% to 4.50%, marking the third consecutive meeting without a rate cut, reflecting concerns about rising unemployment and inflation risks in the current economic climate [5][6]. - Recent economic data showed that in April, non-farm payrolls increased by 177,000, and the unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2%, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 2.4% year-on-year, indicating mixed signals in the economy [6].

Core Viewpoint - The recent ADP employment data indicates a slowdown in private sector job growth, raising concerns among economists and investors about the overall economic environment [2][4]. Employment Data Summary - In February, the ADP reported an increase of 77,000 jobs, significantly below the expected 140,000, with the previous month's figure revised up to 186,000, marking the smallest increase since July 2024 [2]. - Job losses were primarily concentrated in the services sector, particularly in trade, transportation, utilities, education, and healthcare [2]. - Employment changes by sector in February: - Trade/Transportation/Utilities: Decreased by 33,000 jobs, following an increase of 56,000 in January [2]. - Construction: Increased by 26,000 jobs, up from 3,000 in January [2]. - Professional/Business Services: Increased by 27,000 jobs, compared to 14,000 in January [2]. - Manufacturing: Increased by 18,000 jobs, reversing a decrease of 13,000 in January [2]. - Financial Services: Increased by 26,000 jobs, up from 13,000 in January [2]. Economic Outlook - ADP's Chief Economist Nela Richardson noted that uncertainty in policy and a slowdown in consumer spending may have contributed to the recent layoffs and hiring hesitance [4]. - The rising number of unemployment claims and concerns about future unemployment rates are indicative of a cooling labor market [4]. - Market attention is focused on the upcoming government non-farm payroll report, which could further confirm fears of an economic slowdown and influence Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions [4][5]. - Economists expect the non-farm payroll report to show an increase of 153,000 jobs, with the unemployment rate remaining at 4% [5].