Business Uncertainty: Employment Growth

This dataset tracks business uncertainty: employment growth over time.

Latest Value

4.16

Year-over-Year Change

-5.69%

Date Range

12/1/2016 - 7/1/2025

Summary

The Business Uncertainty: Employment Growth trend measures uncertainty around future employment growth among US businesses. It is an important indicator for economists and policymakers to monitor business sentiment and hiring plans.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

This index tracks US businesses' uncertainty about future employment growth based on survey data. It reflects companies' confidence in the economic outlook and can signal upcoming shifts in the labor market.

Methodology

The data is collected through monthly surveys of business leaders.

Historical Context

This metric helps inform monetary and fiscal policies aimed at promoting economic stability and growth.

Key Facts

  • The index ranges from 0 to 100, with higher values indicating greater uncertainty.
  • The series began in 2011 and is updated monthly.
  • Uncertainty tends to rise during economic downturns and policy changes.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Business Uncertainty: Employment Growth trend measures the level of uncertainty US businesses have about future employment growth.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric provides insight into business sentiment and can signal upcoming shifts in the labor market, making it relevant for economists, policymakers, and investors.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of business leaders across the United States.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: This index helps inform monetary and fiscal policies aimed at promoting economic stability and growth by signaling changes in business confidence and hiring plans.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The series is updated monthly, with some delay, and may be subject to revisions as additional survey data is collected.

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Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Business Uncertainty: Employment Growth (ATLSBUEGUP), retrieved from FRED.