US JOBLESS CLAIMS FELL TO 194 , 000 LAST WEEK , LOWEST SINCE JULY

What happened: U.S. jobless claims fell to 194,000 last week, down from 200,000 the week before, the lowest level since July. Key numbers: 194,000 claims last week; 200,000 prior week; four-week average 197,750; claims never topped 230,000 this year; unemployment rate 4.2%; 68,000 average monthly job gains this year versus 9,700 in 2025, Why it matters: The report signals layoffs remain low and most workers have job security, even as higher energy prices since the fighting with Iran began Feb. 28 squeeze businesses and consumers. Hiring stays sluggish, a "low-hire, low-fire" market. Coverage: 5 outlets in 24h

U.S. jobless claims fell to 194,000 last week, down from 200,000 the week before, the lowest level since July.

The report signals layoffs remain low and most workers have job security, even as higher energy prices since the fighting with Iran began Feb. 28 squeeze businesses and consumers. Hiring stays sluggish, a "low-hire, low-fire" market.