Initial unemployment claims fell slightly last week and continued claims have been decreasing by 150,000-200,000 per month, indicating an improving employment situation. However, New York state saw an increase in claims due to layoffs in several industries. Housing starts increased 3.9% in November after a large drop the previous month, led by single-family starts, though multifamily starts decreased. Housing permits overall declined in November mainly due to a large drop in multifamily permits, while single-family permits rose slightly.