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,

U.S. employers added just 73,000 jobs in July and the May and June numbers were revised sharply lower, boosting the chances of a September rate cut.

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.