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.”
One of the last major players in the DVD rental business has expressed interest in purchasing Netflix's mailing division, which is now set to be shut down. Bill Rouhana, CEO of Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, which owns Redbox and its network of DVD kiosks, told The Hollywood Reporter that "I'd like to buy it," and that he's reached out multiple times about an acquisition.
Tesla shares fell sharply at the opening bell Thursday after the company felt the sting of numerous price cuts it made across its model line up this year in hopes of energizing sales.
Paul Miller, certified public accountant and founder of Miller & Company LLP, joined Cheddar News to discuss what electric vehicle owners should know about tax credits and the new rules to qualify for them. "I would definitely make a phone call to your accountant ... to your CPA to ensure that you're getting the credit and it's applicable," he said.
