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MNI BRIEF: US Feb Jobs Seen Up Over Jan But May Disappoint

MNI (Washington)
WASHINGTON (MNI)

There is potential for a downside surprise from the U.S. employment report Friday, according to MNI's latest Reality Check, as job postings in January were essentially flat, suggesting February's gain could be a bit disappointing, running counter to the estimates of some "overly optimistic" economists. Job gains will continue to be led by industries like construction, while payrolls growth in leisure and hospitality remains muted, sources noted.

That said, the focus of policy is shifting away from the headline, and metrics like the employment-population ratio have become top indicators for policymakers like the Federal Reserve, current and former Fed economists told MNI this week.

U.S. job growth in February likely rebounded over January, with Bloomberg forecasting an increase of 200,000 jobs, more than tripling January's weaker-than-expected 49,000 gain. The unemployment rate should hold steady at 6.3%.

Labour Force Participation Rate

Source: Bloomberg

MNI Washington Bureau | +1 202-371-2121 | brooke.migdon@marketnews.com
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MNI Washington Bureau | +1 202-371-2121 | brooke.migdon@marketnews.com
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