Analysis: The U.S. employment rebound in March exceeded expectations, and the Federal Reserve's focus on inflation risks may be further intensified.

ME News message, April 3 (UTC+8): U.S. job growth rebounded in March by more than expected, driven by the end of a healthcare-industry strike and a rise in temperatures. At the same time, the unemployment rate fell to 4.3%, but as uncertainty grows over the prospects of a war with Iran, downside risks facing the labor market are rising. The widely watched jobs report released Friday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that nonfarm payrolls increased by 178k last month, far above the market expectation of 60k, marking the largest gain since late 2024. February data was revised down by 133k. March unemployment was 4.3%, also below market expectations. Economists widely expect that, after the strike ends, the employment market in March will rebound. The unemployment rate dropped sharply because more than 30k healthcare workers were unemployed in February and harsh winter weather. This strong growth may further reinforce the Federal Reserve’s focus on inflation risks, as rapid energy price increases triggered by the Middle East war have intensified these concerns. Wage growth was mainly driven by increased employment in the healthcare industry, which has recovered after the strike ended. Construction, leisure and entertainment, and hospitality also rebounded after falling in February, which may reflect a weather-related economic rebound. (Jin 10) (Source: ODAILY)