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.”
Lucas Jensen, senior manager of company-operated locations, and Gabi Picinic, general manager, both of 'The Melting Pot,' joined Cheddar News to demonstrate how to go about a chocolate fondue at home, explaining the process and ingredients needed to do so.
Stocks ticked up higher as investors digested the latest gauge on inflation
Apple held its latest event, unveiled two new products and launched a new iPhone. Michelle Castillo broke down what products and features were included at the 'Wonderlust' event on Tuesday.
Netflix released a trailer for a new series called "The Fall of the House of Usher."
Lyft is rolling out a new feature to increase the safety of women and non-binary riders.
Taco Bell is marking Taco Tuesday with some deals.
Beyoncé's birthday wish helped small businesses flourish.
TikTok is releasing a new online shopping feature.
A new survey shows that 56% of investors expect personal consumption to take a downward turn at the start of next year.
A federal survey found that 60% of Americans say they have a hard time obtaining a loan or morgtage as well as a credit card.
