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.”
Jeep unveiled its 2024 Wrangler SUV, with more capabilities and updated technology.
Major crypto tokens, including Bitcoin, are trading higher.
Bed Bath & Beyond struck a deal with an investment management firm to get more product on the shelves in an effort to avoid bankruptcy.
Google revealed details of its new artificial intelligence supercomputer on Wednesday.
Demand for mortgages was down last week, even though rates inched lower for potential homebuyers.
Walmart told shareholders Wednesday that inflation is impacting the business. Now it is looking to add automation to offset hiring.
Bob Lee, a technology executive who created Cash App and was currently chief product officer of MobileCoin, has been fatally stabbed in San Francisco.
The Food and Drug Administration has announced that the maker of a brand of eye drops linked to an outbreak of fatal bacterial infections failed to follow safety protocols.
Southwest Airlines Co. has announced the return of its "Companion Pass" offer, which allows the airline's "Rapid Rewards" members to designate a companion who can travel with them for free between August 15 and September 30.
German carmaker Volkswagen said it plans to introduce 25 new electric vehicle models through 2030. As that roll out begins in earnest, Pablo Di Si, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, provided Cheddar News with a breakdown of what consumers can expect from the line-up.
