The number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits fell more than anticipated last week, signaling resilience in the labor market despite ongoing economic uncertainties. According to the Labor Department’s latest report, initial claims for state unemployment benefits decreased by 15,000 to a seasonally adjusted 225,000 for the week ending March 1. Economists surveyed by Reuters had predicted a smaller decline, expecting claims to land at 235,000. 
This unexpected drop suggests that layoffs remain relatively low, offering a positive note amid concerns about slowing growth and high interest rates. The data aligns with broader trends of a sturdy job market, though analysts caution that seasonal fluctuations and other factors could still influence future reports. Continued claims, which reflect the number of people receiving benefits beyond the first week, also edged down slightly to 1.79 million for the week ending February 22, reinforcing the view of steady employment conditions.
Over 500,000 U.S. Jobs at Risk as DOGE Fallout Widens
March 6, 2025 - A sweeping wave of uncertainty is threatening more than half a million American jobs as the ripple effects of aggressive government efficiency measures, dubbed "DOGE," continue to spread. The push to streamline federal spending and slash bureaucratic costs has sparked fears of massive layoffs, particularly in sectors tied to government contracts and grants. Early estimates suggest that private industries could see a loss of up to 70,000 jobs per month in the coming quarter, with public sector cuts already exceeding 62,000 this year. Economists warn that the fallout could destabilize an already fragile labor market, raising concerns about broader economic repercussions as businesses brace for reduced federal support.