The Employment Trends Index (ETI) reached 108.53 in August, increasing from a revised July figure of 107.76. This represents the second consecutive monthly gain for the composite indicator, which is calculated based on eight different labor market signals from the BLS, Census Bureau, and state unemployment agencies.
Compared to August 2025, the ETI grew by 2.0%. The proportion of involuntary part-time workers among all part-time employees decreased from 17.4% to 16.2%, while the percentage of respondents who believe jobs are difficult to obtain fell from 21.7% to 19.5%.
Despite the overall growth, some indicators showed negative trends. Initial claims for unemployment insurance increased during August, and the number of job openings decreased by 26,000, falling to 7.24 million. However, more companies reported difficulties in filling available positions.
The data was released alongside the Bureau of Labor Statistics report, which indicated that the US economy added 162,000 nonfarm jobs in August. The national unemployment rate remained stable at 4.1%.
