**Market Update: Futures Rise Ahead of Jobs Report**

Investors Anticipate Key Jobs Report Amidst Global Uncertainty

As the markets prepare for the highly anticipated September jobs report, US stock futures are experiencing a modest surge. The S&P 500 futures are up 0.3%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average futures have gained around 0.2%. The tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 futures have seen a 0.4% increase.

The focus is on the labor market, with expectations that the report will show a cooling but not collapsing trend. A significant weakening could lead the Federal Reserve to consider a larger interest rate cut of 0.5% in November. The report, set to be released at 8:30 a.m. ET, is predicted to show an increase of 150,000 nonfarm payrolls. However, the unemployment rate is likely to be the main area of focus, with a potential gain sparking speculation about a larger rate cut.

Despite a tumultuous week, the markets have demonstrated resilience, with major indices experiencing losses of less than 1% as of Thursday’s close. The S&P 500 and Dow remain close to record highs. Recent events, including a massive ports strike, Hurricane Helene’s devastation, and the threat of a wider Middle East conflict, had the potential to drive prices up and fuel inflation. However, the resolution of the ports strike and the tentative wage deal have brought some relief.

On the other hand, the ongoing Mideast tensions continue to drive up oil prices, with Western leaders warning of “uncontrollable escalation.” The possibility of Israel attacking Iran’s oil facilities remains a concern, and oil futures are on track for their largest weekly gain in two years. Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate futures have risen over 1% this morning, building on a 5% gain the previous day.

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