Jobless Claims · Initial & Continuing Claims
Definition
Initial claims count new filings for unemployment insurance each week; continuing claims count those still receiving benefits. It is the highest-frequency look at the labor market.
Why investors care
As the most timely jobs indicator, a sustained rise in claims is one of the earliest warnings of a weakening economy and recession risk.
What to watch
Watch the 4-week moving average to cut through weekly noise, and continuing claims for how hard it is to get rehired.