Job Openings Fell In August

Job openings fell back in August, to 5.370 million from 5.668 million in July. Though revised downward from an initial 5.753 million, July remains a standout and a recovery best for job openings. The August rate, though down 5.3 percent from July, is still respectable and above June's 5.323 million rate.

However, the quit rates, which is watched as an indication of worker confidence, does remain stubbornly low, unchanged for a fifth month at 1.9 percent.

This report had been big news but much less so with the September report. Still, openings are solid and consistent with strong demand in the labor market.