jobless claims

They remain at levels consistent with a stable labour market

The jobless rate eased to 4.3% in January from 4.4% in December

Claims for state unemployment benefits dropped 23,000 to a seasonally adjusted 206,000 in the week ended Feb 14

The fall reversed only a fraction of the prior week’s jump

Initial claims for state unemployment benefits jumped 22,000 to a seasonally adjusted 231,000 for the week ended January 31

Lacklustre hiring is stoking anxiety among households over the labour market

Initial claims for state unemployment benefits rose 1,000 to a seasonally adjusted 200,000 for the week ended January 17

Initial claims dropped 9,000 to a seasonally adjusted 198,000 for the week ended January 10

Layoffs have remained low by historical standards