Job Openings Drop Sharply as Corporate Caution Stalls Hiring Despite Economic Growth

Washington, Wednesday, 7 January 2026.
While the broader economy continues to expand, the labor market has entered a defensive crouch, creating a puzzling disconnect for investors and policymakers. Data released Wednesday reveals that November job openings slid to just 7.15 million, significantly missing expectations and marking one of the lowest levels in recent years. The most intriguing insight comes from the stagnant “quits rate,” which suggests the labor market has become a game of musical chairs where the music has stopped—employees are clinging to existing seats rather than seeking new opportunities. This reluctance to hire, driven by uncertainty over tariffs and AI integration, signals a “jobless expansion” that complicates the Federal Reserve’s outlook for 2026.