US investors remain cautious as they await critical inflation data and a Federal Reserve decision on interest rates, which are anticipated to remain unchanged this week. Last Friday’s stronger-than-expected US jobs report highlighted the resilience of the labor market, raising doubts about potential rate cuts in September. Major US stock indices saw modest gains, meanwhile political uncertainties in Europe following far-right successes in elections contributed to market declines. Australian shares are expected to follow this trend amid upcoming local business confidence surveys and fluctuating commodity prices, notably oil and iron ore.

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