US: Labor market continues to remain in healthy territory - Nomura

Analysts at Nomura note that US initial jobless claims decreased 10k to 239k during the week ending 18 November.

Key Quotes

“Claims in Puerto Rico declined during the most recent week after increasing an unusually large amount two weeks ago, likely due to hurricane effects. The four-week moving average of initial claims now stands at 240k, a low level by historical standards as involuntary separations in the labor market remain subdued. Continuing claims increased 36k to 1904k for the week ending 11 November while the four-week moving average only increased marginally to 1890k. Overall, accompanying strong economic momentum in Q4, the labor market continues to remain in healthy territory.”