Definition
The number of people still collecting unemployment benefits after their first week.
The story
Initial claims count people who just lost a job. Continuing claims count people who haven't found the next one yet. If initial claims stay low but continuing claims climb, layoffs aren't rising, but finding work is getting harder.
Why markets watch it
It shows how long people are staying out of work.
Connects to
We explain why it moves markets. What you do with it is your call. Commentary and education only. Not financial advice. All terms