Breaking News: Economy

• We're in a 'hiring recession,' economist says — how job seekers can stand out - The job market flatlined in 2025. The first half of this year is expected to bring more of the same, economists said.
• Trump revealed some of Friday's jobs data early in post the prior day - The president indicated that private sector payrolls had expanded by 654,000, a total that would have included Friday's jobs count for December.
• U.S. payrolls rose 50,000 in December, less than expected; unemployment rate at 4.4% - Nonfarm payrolls were expected to rise by 73,000 in December as the unemployment rate moved lower to 4.5%.
• Trump instructs 'representatives' to buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds, aiming to lower rates - President Donald Trump said he is "instructing my Representatives" to buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds.
• Trade deficit in October hits smallest since 2009 after Trump's tariff moves - The trade shortfall was just $29.4 billion for October, down 39% from the prior month.
• Treasury Secretary Bessent says more Fed rate cuts are 'only ingredient missing' for stronger economy - Bessent on Thursday pressed the administration's desire for lower interest rates, saying they are the key to future economic growth.
• Layoff pace in December hit lowest level since mid-2024, Challenger says - Planned job cuts totaled 35,553 for the month, a 50% slide from November and an 8% decrease from the same period a year ago.
• Private payrolls rose 41,000 in December, slightly below expectations, ADP says - Private sector job creation turned positive in December though at a bit softer pace than expected.
• Euro zone inflation hits 2% in December, in line with forecasts - Euro zone inflation stood at 2% in December, flash data from Eurostat showed on Wednesday.
• Iran unrest deepens as U.S. attack in Venezuela sharpens Trump intervention threat - The widespread unrest, fueled by a long-running economic crisis in Iran, killed at least 29 people while more than 1,200 people have been arrested.