US unemployment claims dropped to 206,000 last week with layoffs still sparse

Jobless claims in the U.S. dropped to 206,000 last week, indicating that layoffs remain sparse and most Americans enjoy job security. The unemployment rate is reported as low at 4.1%, reflecting economic resilience despite high energy prices. However, the job market remains a “no hire, no fire” environment, with employers reluctant to take on new workers.