US initial jobless claims fell by 18,000 in the week ended Dec. 30, 2023, to a total of 202,000, the lowest level since October, the US Department of Labor reported today. The previous week’s level was revised upward by 2,000.

The Associated Press noted the labor market continues to show resilience despite elevated interest rates.

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of claims declined by 4,750 to a total of 207,750. The previous week’s average was revised upward by 500.