Skip to main content

Featured

Trump Targets Fed Chair Powell Over Renovation Costs

  In a dramatic escalation of his long-standing feud with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, former President Donald Trump has signaled a potential path to remove Powell from office—citing alleged mismanagement of a $2.5 billion renovation project at the Fed’s Washington headquarters. The renovation, which includes upgrades to aging infrastructure and removal of hazardous materials like asbestos, has ballooned in cost over the years. Trump and his allies claim the project includes extravagant features such as rooftop gardens, VIP dining rooms, and premium marble—claims Powell has publicly denied. The Fed insists the renovations are necessary and cost-effective in the long term, consolidating staff and reducing rental expenses. While the Supreme Court has affirmed that a president cannot dismiss the Fed chair over policy disagreements, Trump may be attempting to build a case for removal “for cause,” alleging Powell misled Congress about the renovation’s scope and budget. Criti...

article

S&P 500 and Nasdaq Surge After Strong Jobs Data Eases Economic Concerns

 

In a reassuring update on the health of the US labor market, weekly initial jobless claims fell more than forecast. As a result, US stocks made a significant leap higher today:

  • The S&P 500 rose by 1.9%.
  • The tech-heavy Nasdaq jumped more than 2.3%.
  • The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up about 1.4%.

This positive momentum comes after last week’s sluggish non-farm payrolls update had contributed to recent declines. Notably, government data showed a decline in initial jobless claims for the week ending August 3, down from the previous week and below economists’ forecasts.

Additionally, commodities experienced a boost amid the market rebound. Gold futures rose more than 1%, silver contracts jumped over 1%, and oil futures gained as markets anticipated potential geopolitical tensions. Overall, strong job market data and upbeat earnings reports have fueled investor confidence, despite lingering concerns about volatility.

The stock market’s recovery today reflects optimism about the US economy and provides a welcome respite from recent turbulence. As always, investors should remain cautiously optimistic and monitor developments closely. 

Comments