Report suggests U.S. job market remained firm at year-end.

Report suggests U.S. job market remained firm at year-end.

Elimination of payroll tax cut will limit first-quarter growth to 1%.

Despite Sandy, 146,000 jobs added last month; unemployment rate declines to 7.7%.

Despite Sandy, 146,000 jobs added last month; unemployment rate declines to 7.7%.

Sandy's impact wanes on claims, but storm is expected to dampen November payroll gains.

Sandy's impact wanes on claims, but storm is expected to dampen November payroll gains.

Stronger-than-expected growth reflects pick-ups in consumer and government spending, residential construction.