U.S. Jobless Claims Show First Increase Since March

The transcript discusses the impact of COVID-19 on jobless claims, highlighting an increase in initial claims and a decrease in continuing claims. It notes the importance of considering the age of the data and the exclusion of pandemic emergency money for self-employed and gig workers. The total number of people receiving various claims is also discussed, with a slight decrease from the previous week. The transcript emphasizes the significance of these numbers in the context of ongoing negotiations in Washington and the potential economic implications. Future expectations and the impact on payroll estimates are also considered.

What was the increase in initial jobless claims from the revised number last week?

• 100,000

• 129,000

• 109,000

• 119,000

What is one reason the weekly jobless claims numbers might not fully represent the current situation?

• They are based on estimates.

• They exclude self-employed and gig workers.

• They are two weeks old.

• They include pandemic emergency money.

How many people in total are receiving various kinds of claims?

• 31.8 million

• 30 million

• 32 million

• 33 million

What does the jobless claims data from the last week of July indicate?

• Stability in the job market

• An increase in payrolls

• A decrease in economic activity

• Downward pressure on payroll estimates

Why is the July payroll survey significant in the context of jobless claims?

• It influences economic estimates for July.

• It predicts future jobless claims.

• It provides a timely measure of economic health.

• It affects the distribution of $600 checks.