Americans applied for fewer unemployment benefits at the end of 2019, the Labor Department announced Thursday. The number dropped by 2,000 to 222,000 in the seven days up until December 28, although the four-week average ticked up by 4,750 to 233,250.
The report beat expectations that had predicted 225,000 new claims, according to Reuters. The result marks the third consecutive weekly decline.
“I think we’re definitely going to see slightly smaller growth month by month than what we saw in 2019 and that’s consistent with economists expectations’ of the macroeconomy weakening slightly,” in the labor market, Beth Akers, Manhattan Institute senior fellow, told Cheddar.
She will be keeping an eye on manufacturing trends and changes in policy regarding trade for indications about how job numbers will grow (or shrink) in 2020.
“If you’re looking to something to be concerned about, you can look at the four-week moving average, which is up from what it’s been over the course of the year,” Akers said. “But, by and large, these are really strong, positive numbers for the labor market.”
Fresh off the company’s IPO at the New York Stock Exchange Bowhead Specialty CEO Stephen Sills discusses what’s next and why some insurance rates are rising.
AAA predicts a surge in summer 2024 travel, with 44 million travelers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Expect more solo trips, AI use, and Taylor Swift.
As Americans prepare for a long weekend of grilling, Impossible Foods wants to put aside the culture wars, win over meat eaters – and IPO when it's 'ready.'
In April, grocery prices rose by 1.2 percent, reaching pre-pandemic levels of food inflation. Could an e-commerce grocer be the solution? Thrive Market says yes
The Recording Academy CEO, Harvey Mason Jr., sat down with Cheddar to discuss what to expect on Sunday, February 2nd 2025 at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.