The unemployment rate fell to 4.4%, slightly better than forecasts for 4.5%. The figures reinforced the view among policymakers that the economy is experiencing a "no hire, no fire†phase, with companies reluctant to add workers but also unwilling to cut jobs aggressively. Job gains narrow to a few sectors Copy link to section Hiring continued to be concentrated in a narrow set of industries. Employment rose in food services and drinking places, health care, and social assistance, while retail trade shed job ...

There was a decline in initial claims for unemployment together with an increase in insured employment last week.By completing this form, you agree to receive marketing communications from PYMNTS and to the sharing of your information with our sponsor, if applicable, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions .Complete the form to unlock this article and enjoy unlimited free access to all PYMNTS content — no additional logins required.Observers said this combination reflected a continuat ...