The stock market faces a critical test next week with the upcoming **U.S. jobs report**, expected to reflect a stable economy.
December saw the **S&P 500** decline by 2.5%, despite a strong overall performance in 2024, which finished with a 23% increase.
Analysts predict the jobs report on **January 10** will indicate a growth of **150,000 jobs** with an unemployment rate of **4.2%**.
The Federal Reserve's approach to **interest rates** depends on labor market data, following reduced projected cuts for 2025.
There are concerns over potential **inflation** resurgence, as investors seek a "Goldilocks number" from the jobs report - not too strong, not too weak.
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