There are many interesting stories within this May job report. Gains were broad across all sectors, not just healthcare. The consumer is okay, with leisure and hospitality having a big number. There is no evidence of tariffs impacting the job market; businesses are passing on price pressures through inflation, not jobs. Healthcare added jobs provide hearty support. I use the NFP number to forecast where the economy will be in 6 to 12 months, and it tells me our view of around 2% growth this year is on track.
The cyclical momentum forming underneath the gains and the broad sector participation support the view of a stable economy. The lack of tariff impact on jobs suggests businesses are managing price pressures effectively.