Jobless Claims in U.S. Declined Less Than Forecast Last Week

Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits declined last week by less than forecast, while remaining at levels consistent with a solid labor market, a Labor Department report showed Thursday.

While claims are near the highest level this year, weekly filings have been below 300,000 since early 2015, a level that economists consider consistent with a healthy labor market. U.S. employers remain reluctant to let go of staff amid steady economic growth and increased difficulty finding workers with relevant skills and experience.