Dollar Oscillates Amid Mixed U.S. Jobs Data and Anticipated Fed Rate Cuts

The dollar experienced volatility on Friday after U.S. employment data showed slower-than-expected job growth. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 142,000 in August, supporting expectations of a gradual interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. The dollar initially fell but rebounded against major currencies, with traders now seeing a likely rate cut in upcoming Fed meetings.

The dollar moved erratically on Friday following the release of U.S. employment data that indicated slower-than-anticipated job growth in August. Nonfarm payrolls showed an increment of 142,000 jobs last month, falling short of expectations and suggesting a steady deceleration in the labor market. This development is expected to support gradual interest rate reductions by the Federal Reserve.

Despite an initial drop against most major currencies post-data release, the dollar recovered to trade higher. The euro fell 0.3% to $1.1078 after peaking at $1.1155 following the report. The Dollar Index, which gauges the U.S. currency's strength against six major counterparts, rose 0.3% to 101.32.

Market uncertainty was evident as traders pondered whether the latest data would justify a 25 or 50 basis point rate cut. Federal Reserve's upcoming meeting on September 17-18 now sees a 39% chance of a rate reduction to 4.75%-5%. Analysts suggest that the deteriorating labor market fundamentals could spur more significant rate cuts in the following months.

(With inputs from agencies.)