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.”
Emily Irwin, managing director of advice & planning for Wells Fargo’s wealth & investment management arm, joined Cheddar News to discuss financial red flags when finding a partner.
Shai Eisenman, founder and CEO at Bubble Skincare, joined Cheddar News to discuss the company's product line geared for younger skin and how it's expanded its footprint with some big-name retailers.
Ford paused production and deliveries on its F-150 electric pickup due to a possible battery issue and also announced it planned to cut jobs in Europe.
More details are emerging out of East Palestine, Ohio with officials discovering three additional chemicals following the Norfolk Southern train derailment and controlled burn of hazardous materials.
Stocks ended mixed on Wall Street following several sharp reversals after a report suggested inflation may not be slowing as quickly and as smoothly as hoped.
