US DATA: Challenger reports 36,490 planned layoffs in April, down from
the 41,528 reported in March and from 38,326 in April 2010. Layoffs
were again led by the government/non-profit sector. Hiring plans were
boosted by 50,000 new hiring plans announced by McDonalds. Challenger
said that the slower pace of layoffs and increased hiring suggest
employer optimism is up. See MNI main wire.