Global Markets on Edge as U.S. Jobs Data Looms

Asian and European shares struggle for direction while investors await U.S. jobs data, critical for determining future rate cuts. Oil prices face a challenging week, and the yen sees gains driven by market caution. Treasury yields also slip, reflecting market jitters ahead of the payroll report.

Asian shares wavered on Friday as investors anxiously anticipated U.S. jobs data, crucial for determining the size and speed of upcoming rate cuts in the world's largest economy.

Oil prices experienced their toughest week in over a year, hovering above critical levels. European markets also faced a lower open with futures indicating declines.

U.S. non-farm payrolls are predicted to rise by 160,000, but recent trends suggest potential downside risks, fueling speculation of a significant half-point rate cut.

Market caution propelled safe-haven investments like the yen, while influential Fed officials aimed to provide immediate clarity post-data release.

Despite declines in Treasury yields and sector-specific fluctuations, global markets remained on edge ahead of the pivotal jobs report.

(With inputs from agencies.)