Overview

• April job openings climbed to 7.39 million, surpassing economists’ forecast of 7.1 million.
• Hiring activity rose to 5.57 million in April, marking the strongest pace in seven months, while layoffs jumped to 1.786 million.
• ADP data show private-sector employment slowed to 37,000 jobs added in May, the lowest monthly gain since March 2023.
• Wage growth held firm in May, with annual pay up 4.5% for job-stayers and 7% for job-changers.
• Companies cite ongoing tariff swings and policy unpredictability as key factors dampening hiring momentum.