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The second-widest U.S. merchandise trade deficit in two years and an April drop in inventories at wholesalers and retailers may weigh on the economy this quarter, according to preliminary figures released May 25 from the Commerce Department in Washington.

U.S. jobless-benefit claims are hovering near levels that continue to reflect a strong labor market, with figures little changed last week, Labor Department data showed May 25.

The U.S. labor market continues to show signs of tightening, with unemployment claims declining for the third straight week and benefit rolls matching the lowest level since 1973, Labor Department data showed May 18.

A decline in U.S. jobless-benefit rolls to a 28-year low adds to signs of a tight labor market, as initial unemployment claims also remained subdued, Labor Department figures showed May 11.

Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits dropped more than forecast last week, consistent with a robust labor market, a Labor Department report showed May 4.

Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits rose to a four-week high last week, interrupting a run of subdued firings, a Labor Department report showed April 27.

Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits rose last week while total benefit rolls dropped to the lowest in 17 years, indicating the job market remains tight, a Labor Department report showed April 20.

Fewer Americans than forecast filed for unemployment benefits last week, with applications hovering just above a four-decade low, a Labor Department report showed April 13.

U.S. job openings climbed in February to a seven-month high, signaling a resilient labor market, a Labor Department report showed April 11.

Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits declined to a five-week low, highlighting a resilient job market, a Labor Department report showed April 6.