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.”
Alaska Airlines is planning to buy Hawaiian Airlines for $1.9 billion.
Spotify cut nearly one-fifth of its workforce, or about 1500 staffers, representing the third round of layoffs this year.
After rallying for five straight weeks, stocks fell after the opening bell on Monday as investors await labor market data later in the week.
It's the beginning of the great wealth transfer, according to UBS.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell said higher rates are here to stay for now.
Jenna Helwig, food director at 'Real Simple,' joined Cheddar News to provide tips on how to save on purchasing kitchen gadgets ahead of the holiday season and which essentials are needed when cooking.
You may soon be able to charge your car while driving. Cheddar News explains.
The holiday season is underway and it's a good time to put your Christmas tree up if you haven't already. But making your home festive can be costly. Cameron Forbes, founder of Forbes Functions, joined Cheddar News to provide tips for decorating on a dime.
Google is moving forward with its previously-announced plan to delete inactive accounts and all associated data.
Federal regulators are investigating Chevrolet Volt hybrid cars after some drivers reported issues including sudden power loss and failure to restart.
