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U.S. weekly jobless claims inched up, indicating a modest recovery as the year concludes. Recent positive data, including retail sales, suggests economic momentum.

The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits rose marginally last week, the latest suggestion that the economy was regaining some momentum as the year winds down. The smaller-than-expected increase in weekly jobless claims reported by the Labor Department on Thursday followed recent data showing retail sales unexpectedly rising in November, while single-family housing starts and building permits scaled 1-1/2-year highs. The economy had appeared in danger of stalling at t...

U.S. consumer confidence increased to a five-month high in December, with Americans growing more optimistic about current and future business conditions as well as the labor market, which could help... -December 20, 2023 at 12:30 pm EST - MarketScreener

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. consumer confidence increased to a five-month high in December, with Americans growing more optimistic about current and future business conditions as well as the labor market, which could help to underpin the economy early next year. Consumers' perceptions of a probable recession over the next 12 months were the lowest for the year, though two-thirds still viewed a downturn as possible in 2024.

Production at U.S. factories rose in November, lifted by a rebound in motor vehicle output following the end of strikes, but activity was weaker elsewhere as manufacturing grapples with higher borrowing costs and softening demand. Despite the manufacturing sector's mixed fortunes, the economy continued to expand as the year ended. A survey on Friday showed business activity picked up in December amid rising orders and demand for workers in the services industry.

A report from the Labor Department on Wednesday strengthened optimism that overall inflation would continue to subside and allow the Federal Reserve to start cutting interest rates next year.

Employers are growing more cautious, pulling down some job postings and reining in hiring. Employees are sticking around more and not bouncing as readily for better opportunities.

The US economy added 199,000 jobs in November, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data released Friday.

The unemployment rate in the US dropped to 3.7 percent