U.S. initial jobless claims preview

U.S. initial jobless claims preview: initial claims are projected jumping 39k to 900k in the week ending February 20 after the prior week's 13k increase. This would be the highest level since the January 8 week and is largely a function of the weather disruptions in the south central region. There is also a likely lift from expanded winter coronavirus restrictions, although they have been coming off somewhat. Claims are expected to average 852k in February, after averages of 852k in January, 825k in December and 749k in November. The 861k BLS survey week reading follows prior survey week figures of 914k in January, 892k in December, and 748k in November. Analysts assume a 350k February payroll rise after the 49k January gain.