The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits unexpectedly held at lower levels last week, pointing to further momentum in the labour market after job growth surged in June. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits were unchanged at a seasonally adjusted 254,000 for the week ended July 9, the Labor Department said on Thursday. Claims are near the 43-year low of 248,000 touched in mid-April.
Economists polled by Reuters had forecast initial claims rising to 265,000 in the latest week.
The labour market is on a strong footing, with nonfarm payrolls increasing by a robust 287,000 jobs in June, which should underpin economic growth for the rest of the year.
