Group 1 - The number of initial jobless claims in the U.S. unexpectedly rose to 247,000, the highest level since October of the previous year, indicating a cooling labor market [1] - The four-week moving average of initial jobless claims also increased to 235,000, marking a new high since October [1] - Employers announced approximately 93,800 layoffs in May, which, despite a decrease from April, remains above the average level of the previous year, particularly in the service and retail sectors [2] Group 2 - The total number of individuals receiving unemployment benefits (continuing claims) slightly decreased to 1.9 million, but remains high compared to the same period last year, suggesting longer reemployment times for job seekers [2] - Major companies, including Microsoft, Disney, and Booz Allen Hamilton, have recently announced layoff plans, driven by factors such as tariff policies, funding cuts, weak consumer spending, and general economic pessimism [2] - Economists expect the upcoming non-farm payroll report to show a decline in new job additions following strong growth in April, while the unemployment rate is anticipated to remain steady at 4.2% [2]