U.S. job growth slowed more than expected in July while the prior month's data was revised sharply lower, pointing to a sharp moderation in the labor market. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 73,000 jobs last month after rising by a downwardly revised 14,

Nonfarm payrolls rose by 73,000, less than almost all economists had forecast, while the unemployment rate ticked up to 4.2%, matching the median projection. Average hourly earnings were up 0.3%, leaving them 3.9% higher over 12 months – outpacing inflation.

The Federal Reserve won’t cut interest rates until it sees how inflation and job creation respond to higher tariffs. The next big bite of the apple arrives on Friday with the July employment report. Here’s what to expect.