U.S. GDP accelerated to 2.6% annual rate in the third quarter after net international trade and business investment improved and consumer spending held up.
Monthly net new job additions are declining after months of large-sized rate hikes and withdrawal of the liquidity by Fed. However, labor market conditions remain tight as businesses continue to add jobs at a slower but brisk pace.
Weekly initial jobless claims rose less than expected in the week ending September 24. The smaller-than-expected rise in claims signaled the strength in the labor market and another reason for the Fed to continue hiking rates.