U.S. Job Openings Drop in December, Falling Below Dow Jones Estimate

Job openings dropped in December, falling below the Dow Jones estimate and marking the lowest level since September, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Openings fell despite a net gain in nonfarm payrolls. Declines were led by professional and business services, private education and health services, and financial activities. The Federal Reserve continues to monitor labor market conditions as it assesses future monetary policy. Stocks rose following the report, while Treasury yields were mixed.