FX.co ★ US Continuing Claims Highest Since 2021

Continuing jobless claims in the United States rose to 1.974 million for the week ending November 8, 2025. This marks the highest level recorded since 2021 and indicates a deceleration in hiring activity. In contrast, initial jobless claims decreased by 8,000 from the previous week's figures to 220,000 for the period ending November 15, remaining significantly below the averages post-second quarter. The increase in continuing claims, coupled with steady growth in initial claims, suggests a reduction in hiring rather than an uptick in layoffs. Unemployment claims from Federal workers reached 38,867 on a non-seasonally adjusted basis, a significant 400% increase compared to levels seen prior to the Federal government shutdown in October.