22:10 - 23.07.2026

---

July 23, Fineko/abc.az. Initial applications for US unemployment benefits fell by 22,000 to 187,000 in the week ending July 18, reaching their lowest level since 1969, according to data from the US Department of Labor.

The figure came in below the median forecast of 210,000 expected by Bloomberg economists. The four-week moving average dropped to 207,500, while continuing claims remained virtually unchanged at 1.8 million.

Analysts note that the low level of claims underscores employer reluctance to lay off workers, though part of the decline also reflects a reduction in overall labor force participation.