Jobless claims dip 3,000 to 223,000 in early March, labor market still showing strength

The numbers: The number of people who applied for unemployment benefits in early March after losing their jobs fell slightly, keeping so-called jobless claims near the lowest levels in a half-century.

The four-week average of new jobless claims also slipped by 3,000, to 226,250. The monthly average is viewed as more stable since it smoothens out the weekly gyrations. What happened: The number of layoffs in the economy is still extremely low, but they no longer appear to be falling. Big picture: The U.S. economy slowed toward the end of 2018 and got off to a sluggish start in the new year, hurt by the partial government shutdown and a festering trade dispute with China.

Add GM closures next month...

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Jobless claims dip to 223,000 in early March, reinforcing signs of strong labor marketThe number of people who applied for unemployment benefits in early March fell slightly, keeping so-called jobless claims near the lowest levels in a half-century. Initial jobless claims fell by 3,000 to 223,000.
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