A 'jobless boom' is shaping up to be the story of the 2026 economy

A strong economy doesn't mean good news for job seekers this time around.

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• The US economy looks strong, but job growth remains slow — creating a "jobless boom."
• AI investment and consumer spending drove GDP gains, even as layoffs and hiring freezes persist.
• Unemployment is at the highest rate since 2021 as job seekers face a tough market and dwindling sentiment.

The US economy continues to surprise on the upside — except when it comes to jobs.