Wholesale stocks in the United States fell by 0.2 percent in December compared to the previous month. This is apparent from definitive figures published by the US Department of Commerce.
In general, economists had expected stocks to decrease by 0.1 percent. Prices fell by 0.1 percent in November.
Employment in the United States grew considerably stronger in January than expected. According to the US Department of Labor, 225,000 jobs were added last month (excluding agriculture). In general, economists counted on 165,000 new jobs.
Job growth in December was adjusted slightly upwards to 147,000, from a previously reported 145,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate was 3.6 percent. The average hourly wage increased 0.2 percent on a monthly basis. Economists had generally expected an increase of 0.3 percent here.
There was a considerable increase in jobs in the construction sector, helped by the mild winter weather. Employment also grew in transport and logistics, for example with couriers. The number of jobs in government and education also increased. Employment declined in US industry.
