[U.S. Initial Jobless Claims Decline, Fed Faces Division Over December Rate Cut Decision]
The number of initial jobless claims in the U.S. unexpectedly fell last week, hitting the lowest level since mid-April and remaining relatively low. However, data shows that it has become more difficult for the unemployed to find new jobs. Federal Reserve officials have lowered interest rates during the last two policy meetings to support the slowing labor market, but there is division over whether to cut rates again at the final meeting in December, as they need to strike a balance between a weak labor market and high inflation.