The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits last week rose more than expected, suggesting some loss of momentum in the labour market stateside amid a sharp economic slowdown.
Figures released Thursday morning by the U.S. Labor Department, initial claims for state unemployment benefits increased 8,000 to a seasonally-adjusted 285,000 for the week ended Jan. 30. Last week's claims were revised to show 1,000 fewer applications received than previously reported.
Despite the increase last week, claims remained below the benchmark 300,000, a level associated with strong labour market conditions, for the 48th straight week. That is the longest run since the early 1970s.
A department spokesperson said there were no special factors influencing last week's claims data and only claims in Oklahoma had been estimated.
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