Mixed Signals: US Economy Adds 209,000 Jobs in June, but Job Growth Wobbles

The US economy added 209,000 jobs in June, falling short of Wall Street estimates and indicating a slowdown from the previous month. This is the first time in 15 months that nonfarm payrolls have come in lower than expected. The unemployment rate remained at 3.6%, in line with expectations. The report suggests that the labor market is gradually finding a better balance as job growth slows and labor supply expands. Investors are closely watching the data for clues on the Federal Reserve's next move on interest rates, with a 95% chance of an interest rate hike at the July meeting.