In November, the U.S. economy added 227,000 payroll jobs, though the unemployment rate edged up to 4.2%. Job openings rose significantly in October, while the ISM manufacturing index showed modest improvement. However, durable goods orders were sluggish, and real consumer spending remained nearly flat. The retail inventory situation remained stable, but new home sales plunged in October. Mortgage rates declined for the second consecutive week, offering some relief to homebuyers. In transportation, trucking added the most jobs in over a year, with a minimal net decrease in the trucking population, though refrigerated spot rates retreated from recent highs. Diesel prices firmed slightly, while rail traffic figures were skewed by the holiday season. Additionally, potential disruptions from a port strike and tariffs could impact intermodal activity.