The number of initial jobless claims in the United States rose to 223,000, hitting a three-year high

The number of initial jobless claims in the U.S. for the week ending January 18 rose to 223,000, exceeding the expected 220,000, reaching a three-year high. The number of continuing claims also increased to 1.9 million, indicating that unemployed individuals are facing greater difficulties in finding work. Although initial jobless claims remain at a healthy level, the rise in continuing claims suggests increasing pressure on the labor market. Economists are paying attention to this data in preparation for this month's employment report, and it is expected that the Federal Reserve will not cut interest rates at next week's policy meeting