Key Facts
• On June 3, the U.S. Department of Labor released April JOLTS data.
• Job openings increased by 191,000, reaching 7.391 million in April 2025.
• Economist forecasts compiled by Reuters predicted 7.1 million job openings.
• March job openings were revised upward from 7.192 million to 7.2 million.
• Hiring rose by 169,000 to 5.573 million in April.
• Layoffs increased by 196,000, totaling 1.786 million in April.
• Economists attribute uncertainty to fluctuating import tariff policies.
• The rise in layoffs aligns with a slowing labor market and economic concerns.
Summary
The U.S. Department of Labor’s April Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) revealed a 191,000 increase in job openings, reaching 7.391 million, surpassing economist expectations of 7.1 million. This rise follows a sharp decline in March, which was later revised upward to 7.2 million. Hiring also grew by 169,000 to 5.573 million, while layoffs surged by 196,000 to 1.786 million, reflecting a slowing labor market. Economists highlight the challenges businesses face in planning due to inconsistent import tariff policies, which contribute to economic uncertainty.
