labor market

Private-sector hiring slowed down in February and small businesses cut jobs. Plus, new unemployment claims were up last week.

But it might not be as good news as one might think for the labor market.

The low hiring rate reveals weakness despite low unemployment, says Kathryn Anne Edwards. Per the JOLTS report, openings declined in December.

Austan Goolsbee says the central bank is keenly monitoring how changing economic policy is influencing inflation and employment.

The data is in line with pre-COVID claims volume, and the job market often sags in January.

Stability reigns. The economy has about 7 million more jobs than before COVID hit, and both quits and layoffs are low.

Thanks to a cooling labor market, workers are clocking 45 minutes on the job less each week compared to 2021.

That’s 3% fewer than a year ago. If it keeps dropping, it could be a sign the labor market is getting warmer.

Some Americans work a second job to make ends meet. Others do it to build up cash or gain experience in a different field.

The Federal Reserve has wanted cooling inflation coupled with steady employment. It’s gotten that.