US economy lost 92,000 jobs in February
The US lost 92,000 jobs in February 2026, pushing unemployment up to 4.4%.
This drop came right before global tensions rose due to President Trump's conflict with Iran.
January was a bit brighter, with 130,000 new jobs, better than expected but still trailing last year's numbers.
Fed's March meeting looms large as rate debate intensifies
2025 saw just 181,000 new jobs, the weakest since COVID-19, job growth was concentrated in the first half of the year; from July to December 2025 the economy lost 45,000 jobs.
Economists had hoped for a small gain in February and steady unemployment, but reality didn't match up.
With these numbers out, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve's March meeting.
Some actors, including President Trump, have pushed to lower rates, while others, including some Fed officials, have urged an extended pause or caution.