Unemployment claims in the US last week changed little from the previous week. It remains close to historic lows, highlighting the reluctance of companies to cut jobs in a tight job market.
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The four-week moving average of the firmest jobless claims fell to a one-month low of 221,750. Seasonal adjustments are especially difficult during the holidays.
The labor market is still very tense and, although there are signs of calm, the persistent imbalances between labor supply and demand continue to put upward pressure on wages. Difficulties in attracting and retaining workers have made companies more reluctant to cut jobs.
Statewide, non-seasonally adjusted jobless claims decreased in California, Indiana and Ohio.
See table for detailed statistics.
Original title:US jobless claims were little changed last week(extract)
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