U.S. jobless claims dip; 2014 layoffs lowest in 17 years

(Reuters) - The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits fell last week and job cuts declined sharply in December, suggesting the labor market is tightening.

Consumer Sentiment in U.S. Unexpectedly Falls on Outlook

Consumer confidence in the U.S. unexpectedly dropped in March to a four-month low, indicating household spending may be slow to pick up from a weather-related setback earlier this year.

World Bank revamp: 'We're not cutting jobs out of spite,' insists president

When an organisation with more than 10,000 workers spread across 120 offices worldwide decides to streamline its operations to meet tough new targets and head off threats from rivals, it is bound to cause pain.

Growth in Consumer Spending Slows

WASHINGTON — American consumers increased their spending in December at a slower pace, while their income grew by the largest amount in eight years, the Commerce Department said Thursday.