AI trade stalls, 'ghost job' listings, Trump floats tariff rebate checks and more in Morning Squawk

In a turbulent trading environment, the Dow Jones Industrial Average marked a historic high, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite faced challenges, particularly with key AI stocks lagging behind in performance. Investors are waking up to a mix of optimism and concern as they prepare for the day ahead. The anticipated end of the government shutdown brings with it a backlog of economic data that the Bureau of Labor Statistics will need to address. Market analysts are keenly awaiting insights into the job market, especially as other indicators suggest a potential easing in labor conditions. However, if the shutdown concludes this week, the BLS may only provide a timeline for report releases, leaving many data points still unaccounted for, as reported by CNBC's Jeff Cox. Compounding these uncertainties is the rise of "ghost job" listings—advertisements for positions that remain unfilled, raising questions about the robustness of the job market. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has proposed a controversial idea of issuing tariff rebate checks, suggesting a potential $2,000 payment to Americans, excluding higher earners. Experts caution that such proposals may not materialize soon and could exacerbate inflationary pressures. In tariff-related news, U.S. importers are preparing for a straightforward refund process if the Supreme Court rules against Trump's tariffs, as highlighted by CNBC's Lori Ann LaRocco. Additionally, the Senate Agriculture Committee is making strides in regulating digital assets, unveiling a draft bill aimed at establishing a clear framework for cryptocurrency adoption—an initiative that Cody Carbone, CEO of the Digital Chamber, hails as a pivotal guide for institutional engagement with digital currencies. On the corporate front, Swiss sportswear brand On has bucked the trend of slowing sales seen by many footwear companies, reporting strong earnings and raising its financial outlook. Their shares saw a nearly 9% increase in premarket trading, demonstrating resilience in a challenging market. In the tech and fitness sector, Oura's CEO Tom Hale shared insights about the smart ring's projected growth, estimating sales could reach $2 billion by 2026 after a significant funding round last month. However, he tempered expectations regarding a potential IPO, stating that there is no immediate news on that front. As consumer sentiment fluctuates based on stock ownership, the market remains on edge, with various factors influencing investor confidence as the day unfolds.