US jobless claims rise more than expected

The number of applications for unemployment benefits in the US rose in the week ended April 4, according to data released today, April 9, by the US Labor Department, surpassing expectations that had forecast 210,000 claims.

The reading for the previous week was also revised upward by 1,000 to 203,000 claims.

The smaller-than-expected increase in jobless claims points to a labor market that remains stable, giving the Federal Reserve room to maintain interest rates while closely monitoring the economic impact of the recent truce between Washington and Tehran amid tensions with Iran.