US Job Openings, Consumer Confidence Hit Lows

U.S. job openings declined sharply in March to 7.19 million, the lowest since September and below economists' expectations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Despite steady hiring and fewer layoffs, the drop in vacancies signals weakening labor demand amid economic uncertainty linked to Trump-era trade wars and tariffs. Businesses are increasingly hesitant to expand headcount, with many considering hiring freezes pending further clarity on the economic outlook. Separations, including quits and layoffs, remained largely unchanged, suggesting workers feel less secure about finding new jobs. In April, consumer confidence fell to its lowest level since the start of the COVID pandemic, heightening concerns about the labor market and broader economy. The labor market remains historically tight but faces mounting pressure from persistent economic uncertainty.