The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell below 200,000, more evidence that the job market remains strong in the aftermath of last year’s coronavirus recession. Jobless claims dropped by 8,000 to 198,000. The Labor Department reports the four-week average, which smooths out week-to-week volatility, fell to just above 199,000, lowest level since October 1969.
Minnesota lost 416,300 jobs from February through April 2020 and has since gained 304,400 jobs, or 73% of the jobs lost on a seasonally adjusted basis. The private sector has regained 77% of the jobs lost. Gains were in Leisure & Hospitality, up 2,900 jobs, Professional & Business Services up 2,100 jobs, Educational & Health Service up 1,600, Construction and Manufacturing each up 1,500 jobs,
U.S. home prices surged again in October as the housing market continues to boom in the wake of last year’s coronavirus recession. The S&P CoreLogic…
