Insurance
Insurance products and industry updates
Housing Starts Decline to 1.246 Million Annually as Single-Family Builds Increase
October saw a decline in housing starts to 1.246 million, with single-family units rising amidst broader construction challenges.
December Employment Report Highlights Challenges Despite Drop in Unemployment
The December employment report shows a decline in the unemployment rate to 4.4%, but job growth fell short of expectations, casting doubt on economic strength.
U.S. December Employment Report: 50,000 Jobs Added, Unemployment Falls to 4.4%
In December, U.S. nonfarm payrolls increased by 50,000 while the unemployment rate decreased slightly to 4.4%, amid downward revisions for previous months.
U.S. Trade Deficit Narrows to $29.4 Billion in October
In October, the U.S. trade deficit dropped to $29.4 billion, reflecting increases in exports and decreases in imports, particularly from China.
Initial Jobless Claims Rise to 208,000 Amid Slight Four-Week Average Drop
Initial unemployment claims increased to 208,000, surpassing estimates, while the four-week average dipped to its lowest since April.
December Home Sales Show Mixed Signals Amid Historical Low Sales Trends
December’s early housing market data indicates a year-over-year sales increase, yet overall trends suggest 2025 will still see historic low sales.
ISM Services PMI Hits 54.4% in December, Signaling Continued Sector Growth
The ISM Services PMI rose to 54.4% in December, reflecting ongoing expansion in economic activity, especially in employment.
U.S. Job Openings Shift: November Sees Decline to 7.1 Million
U.S. job openings dropped slightly to 7.1 million in November, with overall hires and separations stable compared to previous months.
Mortgage Applications Decline Amid Lower Rates, Reflecting Market Dynamics
Mortgage applications dropped 9.7% as interest rates fell to 6.25%, highlighting year-over-year gains in purchase activity despite recent dips.
Light Vehicle Sales Rise to 16.0 Million SAAR in December, Yet Show Year-over-Year Decline
December saw light vehicle sales hit 16.0 million SAAR, a 1.9% increase from November but a 4.9% drop from the same month in 2024.