Summary
The U.S. added 256,000 jobs in December, lowering the unemployment rate to 4.1%, outperforming expectations and reflecting a resilient labor market as President Biden leaves office.
Despite earlier inflation overshadowing a strong labor recovery post-COVID, hiring remains steady, layoffs subdued, and job openings rising.
Forecasters predict gradual hiring growth in 2025, with small-business optimism and easing Federal Reserve policies driving gains.
Economic indicators, like increased consumer borrowing for auto purchases, suggest mixed but improving confidence.
“Sure, the current bus driver fixed the sugar in our gas tank, replaced our flat tires, and got us on the road again. But I still think we should give the previous driver another chance—he promised to drive us to Greenland!”