CHAPEL HILL, NC (September 1, 2026) — The unemployment rate dropped in July, but it came with a drop in employment, due to a shrinking labor force.
A labor market shedding jobs plus continuing inflation concerns will give the Federal Reserve much to think about leading up to its midmonth policy meeting. An increase in interest rates is a real possibility, and Friday’s employment report will help shape that decision.
Join Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise Research Director Christian Lundblad as he analyzes the new jobs numbers at 9 AM EDT Friday, September 4. He will also take your questions.
Join via Zoom (registration details below) and submit your questions in advance to External Affairs Assistant Director Rob Knapp via email.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
When: Friday, September 4, 2026, 9 AM EDT (US and Canada)
Economic Briefing: Missing Demand or Missing Workers?
Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise Economic Briefings: Experts from the institute appear on the briefing each month and offer commentary in their areas of specialization. Briefings generally occur on the morning that the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases its employment report.
