Number of first-time claims for jobless benefits dropped more than expected last week. According to Labour Department, applications for unemployment benefits decreased 30 000 to 339 000, the fewest since 2008, while economists projected 370 000 claims.
The report "is consistent with a labour market that is gradually getting better,"Guy Berger, a U.S. Economist at RBS Securities Inc. "Layoffs are at a low level and don't seem to be going anywhere. Hiring is still very muted."