US initial jobless claims rose 2,000 to 206,000 in the week ending Aug. 29, seasonally adjusted, versus economists’ 205,000 estimate, the Labor Department said Thursday. Claims have held in a low 189k–230k range year-to-date, consistent with economists’ description of a “low hiring, low layoffs” labor market. Despite strong domestic demand, employers remain reluctant to materially add headcount amid aggressive trade and immigration policies. Challenger said announced hiring plans in the first ei

US initial jobless claims rose 2,000 to 206,000 in the week ending Aug. 29, seasonally adjusted, versus economists’ 205,000 estimate, the Labor Department said Thursday. Claims have held in a low 189k–230k range year-to-date, consistent with economists’ description of a “low hiring, low layoffs” labor market. Despite strong domestic demand, employers remain reluctant to materially add headcount amid aggressive trade and immigration policies. Challenger said announced hiring plans in the first eight months of the year were up 37% versus the same period in 2025, but that many of those roles are not being filled quickly.