Unemployment claims rise to 778,000 as COVID-19 pandemic worsens

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits rose last week to 778,000, evidence that the U.S. economy and job market remain under strain as coronavirus cases surge and colder weather heighten the risks.

Biden taps ex-Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen to lead treasury, AP sources say

President-elect Joe Biden has chosen former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen to serve as treasury secretary, a pivotal role in which she would help shape and direct his economic policies.

Economists urge Congress to send out second round of $1,200 stimulus checks

A group of more than 125 economists is calling on Congress to send out more direct cash payments to American families to help them weather the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent economic downturn.

UK signs trade deal with Canada to prepare for Brexit

The U.K. has signed an interim trade deal with Canada to give the government more time to negotiate future trading rules as it prepares the country for business life outside the European Union.

Unemployment claims increase to 742,000 as COVID-19 cases surge

The number of Americans seeking unemployment aid rose last week to 742,000, the first increase in five weeks and a sign that the resurgent viral outbreak is likely slowing the economy and forcing more companies to cut jobs.

Biden vows to strengthen economy despite exploding COVID-19 pandemic

President-elect Joe Biden on Monday outlined his plans to boost the U.S. economy but said any structural reforms depend first on reining in the COVID-19 pandemic.

709,000 seek unemployment aid as pandemic escalates

The number of people seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 709,000, the fourth straight drop and a sign that the job market is slowly healing.

Fed signals readiness to do more for economy in grip of pandemic

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate at a record low near zero Thursday and signaled its readiness to do more if needed to support an economy under threat from a worsening coronavirus pandemic.

751,000 seek unemployment benefits as pandemic hobbles US economy

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell slightly last week to 751,000, a still-historically high level that shows that many employers keep cutting jobs in the face of the accelerating pandemic.

McConnell promises COVID-19 stimulus as he maintains seat

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., promised that approval of a new coronavirus relief package by the end of the year can be reached as lawmakers are set to return to work following Tuesday’s elections.

Surge in virus threatens to reverse global economic rebounds

The resurgence of coronavirus cases engulfing the United States and Europe is imperiling economic recoveries on both sides of the Atlantic.

American unemployment claims fall to 751,000; coronavirus resurges

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 751,000, the lowest since March but a figure that remains historically high and indicates the viral pandemic is still forcing many employers to cut jobs.

Pelosi 'remains optimistic' about COVID-19 relief package before Election Day

Despite failing on Monday to come to an agreement on a coronavirus stimulus package, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi "remains optimistic" that a deal with the White House can be reached before Election Day.

Stocks plunge as COVID-19 cases surge in US

The stock market had its worst day in a month as virus cases surge and help for the economy from Washington remains nowhere in sight.

Unemployment claims fall to 787,000; layoffs still high

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 787,000, a sign that job losses may have eased slightly but are still running at historically high levels.

Coronavirus relief talks crawl ahead; McConnell is resistant

President Donald Trump’s most powerful Senate ally is pressing the White House not to move ahead on a coronavirus pandemic relief package.

Study: Older workers face greater unemployment amid COVID-19 pandemic

The study released Tuesday from researchers with the New School university in New York City found that workers 55 and older lost jobs sooner, were rehired slower and continue to face higher job losses than their counterparts ages 35 to 54.

China's economy accelerates as coronavirus recovery gains strength

China’s shaky economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic is gaining strength as consumers return to shopping malls and auto dealerships while the United States and Europe endure painful contractions.