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.”
The Black Innovation Alliance is working to empower Black entrepreneurs and recently received a $3 million commitment from UBS to help with resources. Ifeoma Ike, director of policy and movement strategy with the Black Innovation Alliance, joined Cheddar News to explain further the organization's mission.
Shana Sissel, president & CEO of Banrion Capital Management, joined Cheddar News to discuss another down day on the last session of the month in trading as inflation, a restricted monetary policy, and layoffs continue to affect markets.
Americans who get paid bi-weekly, which means twice a month, will see a third check in March. Shon Anderson, chief wealth strategist of Anderson Financial Strategies, joined Cheddar News to provide tips on how to improve your financial position with that extra pay.
Tesla shareholders filed a lawsuit against the company and Elon Musk, accusing the billionaire of overstating the capabilities of the electric vehicle's self-driving software.
Janice Gassam Asare, workplace equity consultant and the founder of Black White Green (BWG) Business Solutions, discusses supporting Black-owned businesses outside of Black History Month.
