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U.S. Economy Adds 275,000 Jobs in February, Exceeding Expectations

The unemployment rate rises to 3.9% as more Americans join the labor force, with wage growth outpacing inflation.

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Traders work on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York City, February 29, 2024. [Photo: Brendan McDermid/Reuters]

Overview

  • The U.S. economy added 275,000 jobs in February, surpassing expectations and indicating a resilient labor market.
  • Unemployment rate rose to 3.9%, the highest in over two years, due to an increase in labor force participation.
  • Wage growth in February was 4.3% year-over-year, outpacing inflation but raising concerns about its impact on Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions.
  • Manufacturing jobs saw a decline despite significant investments, puzzling economists.
  • Analysts predict the Federal Reserve may begin cutting interest rates by June 2024, potentially impacting the housing market and borrowing costs.