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.”
Pauline Frommer, editorial director of Frommer's Guidebooks, has some very helpful travel information to save money and stay sane this season.
Americans' credit card debt reached a record high in the third quarter.
Target announced that it's rolling out a pre-set meal to feed up to four people for under $25.
You might already be planning your Thanksgiving menu as the holiday approaches. Some retailers are offering deals that could help your pockets as you budget for those large family gatherings.
Management employees who work for AT&T are now being offered paid time off to care for their loved ones.
Jade Warshaw, personal finance expert and co-host of 'The Ramsey Show, joined Cheddar News to provide tips on how to save on engagement rings and to look at cheaper alternatives.
As the country watches the financial situation and monitors decisions from the Federal Reserve, many may be re-evaluating what to do with their money, with interest and mortgage rates at some of the highest levels seen in decades. Mark Hamrick, Washington bureau chief and senior economic analyst with Bankrate, joined Cheddar News to provide tips on your money management as monetary policy continues to change.
A Dutch recruitment firm found that only 42% of employees who have been laid off this year actually received severance, down from 64% who received severance in 2021.
Direct deposit delays due to a human error that happened last week have resulted in some customers still not receiving their paychecks.
Nestle is reportedly investing $100 million in food delivery startup Wonder Group.
