Jobless Claims
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Released On 4/13/2017 8:30:00 AM For wk4/8, 2017
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Prior | Prior Revised | Consensus | Consensus Range | Actual |
New Claims - Level | 234 K | 235 K | 243 K | 239 K to 245 K | 234 K | 4-week Moving Average - Level | 250.00 K | 250.25 K | | | 247.25 K | New Claims - Change | -25 K | -24 K | | | -1 K |
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Highlights
Initial jobless claims continue to surprise to the downside, coming in at 234,000 in the April 8 week vs Econoday's consensus for 243,000. The 4-week average, at 247,250, is down 3,000 for the second straight decline. Continuing claims are also down, 7,000 lower in lagging data for the April 1 week to 2.028 million. These readings are low and favorable and consistent with strong demand for labor. There are no special factors in the week though Louisiana was once again estimated.
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Consensus Outlook
Jobless claims fell sharply in the prior week though comparisons with much of March, where seasonal adjustments lifted totals, may have exaggerated the improvement. Initial jobless claims in the April 8 week are expected to reverse some of the decline in the April 1 week, rising 9,000 to a consensus 243,000.
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Definition
New unemployment claims are compiled weekly to show the number of individuals who filed for unemployment insurance for the first time. An increasing (decreasing) trend suggests a deteriorating (improving) labor market. The four-week moving average of new claims smooths out weekly volatility.
Why Investors Care
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Weekly series fluctuate more dramatically than monthly series even when the series are adjusted for seasonal variation. The 4-week moving average gives a better perspective on the underlying trend.
Data Source: Haver Analytics
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 Important Legal Notice: Econoday has attempted to verify the information contained in this calendar. However, any aspect of such info may change without notice. Econoday does not provide investment advice, and does not represent that any of the information or related analysis is accurate or complete at any time. Legal Notices © 1998-2015 Econoday, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Actual Data Source: Haver Analytics
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