The American average existing-home price was $170,300 in January, down 14.8 percent from a year earlier. A high prevalence of distressed home sales, and of those in lower price ranges has skewed the average price to be markedly lower than under normal market conditions.

American job losses in February were large and widespread across nearly all major industry sectors with healthcare again proving to be the exception.

The American Government is considering a pilot programme that would allow temporary visa holders with special medical skills to enlist in the army and have the opportunity to apply for citizenship immediately.