Long-Term Unemployment Surges in the U.S.

Long-term unemployment in the U.S. is on the rise, with average weeks unemployed reaching 24.1, the highest since April 2022.

Job Market Weakness

Nonfarm payrolls grew by just 73,000 in July, falling short of expectations. Previous months saw downward revisions totaling 258,000 jobs.

Declining Job Openings

Job openings dropped to 7.18 million in July, a level rarely seen since the pandemic began. This indicates a cooling labor market.

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Federal Reserve's Response

The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 25 basis points in September 2025, aiming to stimulate economic growth amid rising unemployment. ([cnbc.com](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/17/golds-record-rally-takes-breather-as-spotlight-shifts-to-fed.html?msockid=0b6d2253f30e62f10cf0343cf2236368&utm_source=openai))

Options Market and Stocks to Watch

Watch for potential volatility in major indices such as the S&P 500 (SPY), Nasdaq-100 (QQQ), and Dow Jones Industrial Average (DIA) as the labor market weakens. Additionally, monitor sectors sensitive to economic cycles, such as consumer discretionary and financials.

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