US Economy Surges, Layoffs Drop Amidst "K-Shaped" Divide

• US economy grew 4.3% in Q3, exceeding forecasts and showing resilience.
• Initial jobless claims fell to 214,000, signaling fewer layoffs.
• Unemployment rate hit 4.6% in November, partly due to technical factors like government shutdown.
• Strong Q3 GDP driven by robust consumer spending, especially on recreational goods and travel.
• Economists highlight a "K-shaped recovery," with high-income earners thriving while lower-income groups struggle, exacerbated by Trump's tariffs.

Why It Matters: Strong US growth and fewer layoffs mask a "K-shaped" economic divide, with tariffs impacting affordability.