Market Update | May 1 & 2 – Key Events to Watch

May 1 – Data Already Released

Japan – BOJ Policy Highlights:

BOJ Policy Rate: Held steady at <0.50%, exactly as forecasted.

BOJ Outlook Report & Press Conference: Bank of Japan continues its ultra-dovish stance, with no hints of tightening yet.

United States – Labor Data:

Unemployment Claims:

Reported at 241K, higher than both the forecast (224K) and previous (223K). This unexpected rise may point to early signs of weakness in the U.S. job market.

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May 2 – Major U.S. Jobs Data Incoming

All eyes on 5:30pm PKT when these key numbers will be released:

Average Hourly Earnings (m/m):

Forecast: 0.3% | Previous: 0.3%

If this comes in higher, inflation worries could return.

Non-Farm Employment Change (NFP):

Forecast: 133K | Previous: 228K

A sharp drop is expected — if the actual number disappoints further, it may increase pressure on the Fed.

Unemployment Rate:

Forecast: 4.2% | Previous: 4.2%

Market will watch if this remains stable or starts to rise — any uptick could trigger concern.

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Summary:

May 1 data shows early cracks in U.S. employment. May 2’s NFP release could be the deciding moment. A weak print may shift Fed expectations and fuel volatility in both forex and crypto markets.

Be prepared — price action could move fast.