U.S. Job Openings Rise Slightly to 7.27 Million in July

U.S. employers posted slightly more job openings in July, signaling a labor market that remains resilient despite economic headwinds, according to federal data released Tuesday. The Labor Department reported that job openings ticked up to 7.27 million in July from a revised 7.18 million in June, as measured by the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, or JOLTS. The report indicated that while hiring slowed, layoffs also fell, painting a picture of a market in a state of cautious equilibrium. Gross hiring dipped to 5.1 million in July from 5.3 million in June. The number of people voluntarily quitting their jobs, often seen as a sign of worker confidence, also declined. Total separations, which include quits and layoffs, held steady at around 5.1 million. The data suggests the American job market is "ambling along" rather than booming, particularly in the face of higher costs squeezing household budgets. An ongoing energy shock linked to the conflict with Iran and elevated borrowing costs have contributed to a more cautious environment for businesses. So far in 2026, U.S.