Economic Overview - The U.S. economy is currently in a soft landing phase despite short-term recession concerns, as indicated by recent economic data[1] - The U.S. GDP growth rate for Q2 2025 is reported at +3.0%, surpassing Bloomberg's consensus estimate of +2.6%[1] - The core GDP, which excludes net exports and inventory changes, shows a growth of only +1.2%, indicating reliance on external factors rather than domestic growth[1] Labor Market Insights - In July 2025, the U.S. added 73,000 non-farm jobs, significantly below the expected 104,000, with prior months' data revised down by 258,000, marking the largest downward revision since June 2020[1] - The unemployment rate rose to 4.248%, higher than the expected 4.2% and the previous 4.117%, the highest level since November 2021[1] Market Reactions - The disappointing non-farm payroll data has reignited recession fears, leading to declines in U.S. stock markets and a drop in bond yields[1] - The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield fell by 17.2 basis points to 4.216%, while the 2-year yield decreased by 24.2 basis points to 3.682%[1] Monetary Policy Outlook - The July FOMC meeting resulted in a 9-2 vote to maintain the policy rate at 4.25-4.5%, with some members advocating for a rate cut[1] - The Federal Reserve's stance indicates a balancing act between managing inflation and supporting the labor market amid rising unemployment[1] Trade and Tariff Developments - The U.S. has introduced "Tariff 2.0," which lowers tariffs compared to the previous version, but uncertainty remains regarding potential increases in tariffs to expedite trade agreements[1] - The new tariff rates will take effect on August 7, 2025, impacting 69 trade partners, with significant rates set for the EU (15%) and Japan (15%)[1]