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Job openings climbed in March to the second-highest level on record, a sign the U.S. labor market stayed strong in the first quarter, a report from the Labor Department showed May 10.

More Americans than forecast signed contracts to purchase previously owned homes in March, an encouraging sign as the housing market was entering its busiest selling season of the year.

Purchases of new homes in the United States unexpectedly declined in March for a third month, reflecting the weakest pace of demand in the West since July 2014.

Purchases of previously owned U.S. homes rose more than projected in March, indicating resilience in demand heading into the spring selling season.

New-home construction in the U.S. slumped more than projected in March, reflecting a broad-based retreat that showed the industry lost momentum heading into the busiest time of year.

Consumer confidence climbed for the first time in a month, as perceptions about the world’s largest economy jumped by the most in more than a year.

The number of Americans filing applications for unemployment benefits unexpectedly declined last week to match a more than 42-year low, indicating employers are upbeat about an economy that bogged down in the first quarter.

Sales at U.S. retailers unexpectedly fell in March, raising concern that consumer spending is losing momentum.

Fewer Americans filed for unemployment benefits last week, illustrating a healthy labor market that’s allowing workers to feel more secure in their jobs.

Manufacturing expanded in March for the first time in seven months, fueled by a surge in orders that signals American factories are emerging from their worst slump since the last recession.