Group 1 - The market is under pressure partly due to a shift in AI stocks and the Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates [1][4] - Recent economic data, particularly in housing, suggests a weakening economy contrary to prevailing arguments of strength [2][9] - Companies are increasingly announcing layoffs as part of cost containment strategies, indicating a downward trend in the labor market [3][4] Group 2 - The Federal Reserve's reluctance to ease rates may lead to a perception of a weakening economy over time [6][8] - The inconsistency in the Fed's communication and decision-making is causing uncertainty in the market [7][8] - There are signs of economic anomalies, such as foreclosures, that suggest underlying issues within the economy [9]

Gold advanced as investors sought haven after the latest US data pointed to weakening in key areas of the economy. Sentiment among American consumers soured as the shutdown weighed on the economic outlook, while high prices worsened views about personal finances. Fears about unemployment jumped, with 71% of respondents in the University of Michigan report expecting it to rise in the year ahead. Most Read from Bloomberg While the government did not release its payrolls report Friday due to the shutdown ...