Core Insights - The Federal Reserve's recent rate cut highlights the challenges faced by young job seekers, particularly recent graduates struggling to find entry-level positions [1] - Research indicates a significant decline in entry-level job listings and a low job-finding rate among new graduates [2][3] Job Market Trends - Entry-level job listings have decreased by 35% since 2023, indicating a tightening job market for new graduates [2] - Only 30% of this year's graduating class has secured full-time jobs related to their degrees, with nearly half feeling unprepared for entry-level applications [2] Employer Hiring Practices - Employers are reducing the number of entry-level roles, with 75% planning to maintain or decrease hiring compared to the previous year [3] - There is an increasing demand for higher educational qualifications, with 71% of employers now requiring a two- or four-year degree for entry-level positions, up from 55% the previous year [3] Skills Gap and Economic Implications - There is a disconnect between the skills employers need and what graduates possess, with a focus on technical and digital skills rather than just soft skills [4] - The unemployment rate for recent graduates stands at 5.8%, while employers report difficulty finding job-ready candidates, indicating a systemic issue in the labor market [4] - The current labor market dynamics are affecting young workers' career growth and financial stability, leading to long-term economic consequences [5]