📊 Morning Update | 12 February 2026 (Thursday) 📈 Markets start cautiously positive: US stock futures are climbing modestly this morning after stronger-than-expected US jobs data released yesterday, reducing near-term expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts. Asian markets are also upbeat, with Japan’s Nikkei and South Korea’s Kospi reaching new highs in early trading. 💼 US labour market stronger than expected: January Non-Farm Payrolls came in at 130,000, more than double forecasts, while the unemployment rate edged down to 4.3 %, prompting a reassessment of future Fed policy and a stronger US dollar. 📅 Today’s key releases: Weekly initial jobless claims and January existing home sales data headline the economic calendar, with traders also eyeing consumer sentiment and further macro signals throughout the session. 💵 FX sentiment: The US dollar is firmer, with EUR/USD softening near 1.1860, reflecting the recalibration of rate-cut expectations following the stronger labour report. Major cross rates are showing modest moves early in European trade. 🛢️ Oil on geopolitical support: Brent crude is trading near $69.6 /bbl and WTI around $64.9 /bbl, lifted by renewed concerns over Middle East tensions and prospective supply risks. 💰 Precious metals drift lower: Gold has edged down slightly from recent levels, with prices around the $5,060/oz area as the dollar strengthens and risk appetite improves. 🪙 Crypto markets mixed: bitcoin is trading near $67,000–$67,100 this morning, showing consolidation after recent volatility. Ethereum and other major altcoins are seeing modest price moves as traders await inflation data later this week. 🏠 Housing market data ahead: Existing home sales for January and continuing jobless claims will provide further insight into the US economic backdrop. 👉 Stay sharp, trade wisely, and watch those key releases today with NordFX. Good luck on the markets! 🚀