After the negative data on inflation, there is bad news for Washington on the labor front as well. The number of employed Americans filing for unemployment benefits for the first time in the week ending Aug. 13 rose more than expected. According to data provided by the Labor Department, the indicator grew by 9 to 408.
The previous week's number was instead revised upwards from 395 to 399 units. Analysts had expected a steady rise to 400 units. The average for the month fell by 3.500 units to 402.500. In the week ending August 6, the total number of workers receiving benefits rose by 7 to 3. The unemployment rate among workers with insurance, on the other hand, remained unchanged at 702%.
