U.S. initial jobless claims unexpectedly fell, and there is disagreement within the Federal Reserve regarding a December rate cut.

According to Mars Finance, on November 26th, amidst continued uncertainty in the US economy, the number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits for the first time last week unexpectedly declined, reaching its lowest level since mid-April and remaining relatively low. In the week ending November 22nd, initial jobless claims fell by 6,000 to 216,000, below the median forecast of 225,000 in an economist survey. Recent surveys show growing concerns among Americans about the labor market. The consumer confidence index in November saw its largest drop in seven months, partly due to more pessimistic expectations for finding work. Federal Reserve officials lowered interest rates at their two most recent policy meetings, focusing on supporting the slowing labor market. However, policymakers are divided on whether to support another rate cut at their final meeting of the year in December, as they attempt to balance a weak labor market and persistently high inflation. (Jinshi)