It seems that employers refrained from as many firings the week before Christmas this year. The data from the Labor Department showed that initial jobless claims fell by 28,000 to 452,000 in the week ended December 19. This was the lowest reading in more than a year.
Dow Jones had consensus around a drop of 10,000 to 470,000 as the economist poll. The four-week moving average fell by 2,750 to 465,250, also to its lowest reading in more than a year. The army of the unemployed, measured by the continuing claims, dropped by 127,000 to 5,076,000.
These figures will still need to get closer to 400,000 to have any real change in the unemployment rate. But for now, this is still a good start.
JON C. OGG
Want to Retire Early? Start Here (Sponsor)
Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances?
Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free.
Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
