Economy's Plot Twist: Surprising Jobs Report Adds 336,000 Positions

The American economy continues to defy expectations of a recession, with a strong September jobs report raising questions about the effectiveness of Federal Reserve interest rate hikes. Falling crude oil prices offer relief from inflation, but the resumption of student loan payments and labor strikes pose risks to consumer spending. The economy is also facing a lack of leadership in the House and soaring housing costs. Despite concerns about a slowdown in China, trade between the US and China has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.