Analysis: U.S. Labor Market Experiences Unexpected "Late Cold Snap," February Non-Farm Payrolls Surprisingly Record Negative Growth

Odaily News U.S. employers unexpectedly cut jobs in February, and the unemployment rate rose, raising questions about the health of the labor market. According to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) on Friday, non-farm payrolls decreased by 92,000 last month, following a strong start to the year. The unemployment rate climbed to 4.4%. The decline in employment partly reflected a drop in healthcare sector jobs due to strike activity. Following the data release, spot gold and silver prices collectively rose, with traders increasing bets that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates at least once in 2026. (Jin10)