NewsWatch: U.S. loses 140,000 jobs in December. First decline in eight months stems from record coronavirus surge

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The U.S. lost jobs in December for the first time in eight months as the coronvirus bore down on the economy again and forced businesses to resort to more layoffs. The economy shed 140,000 jobs last month. See full story.

U.S. could see up to 150,000 more COVID-19 deaths by February as new strain takes hold, expert warns

The U.S. set a fresh record for hospitalizations with the coronavirus-borne illness COVID-19 on Wednesday, as experts said the new, far more infectious variant makes it even more crucial to get the nation’s so-far underwhelming vaccine program on track. See full story.

Death of Capitol Police officer confirmed; chief resigns after siege

A U.S. Capitol Police officer died Wednesday from injuries suffered in Wednesday’s pro-Trump riot at the U.S. Capitol, and the department’s chief resigned following withering criticism over his handling of the situation. See full story.

Trump returns to Twitter, condemns attack on Capitol, finally acknowledges election loss

President Donald Trump acknowledged his election loss and condemned an attack on the U.S. Capitol in a video on Twitter Inc. late Thursday, a day after his support for the attackers led to bans from social-media companies. See full story.

Apple may pick more electric vehicle partners than Hyundai, Wedbush analyst says

One analyst says even if talks to make an electric vehicle with Hyundai Motor come to fruition, Apple still may reach deals with other auto makers — and possibly even Tesla. See full story.

MARKETWATCH PERSONAL FINANCE

In an effort to combat fraudulent unemployment insurance claims, gig workers and self-employed workers face an additional hurdle. See full story.