US applications for jobless aid rose 20,000 last week to 287,000; still near historic lows

WASHINGTON – More Americans requested unemployment benefits last week, but the level remains near historic lows in a positive sign for the job market.

THE NUMBERS: Applications for jobless aid jumped 20,000 to a seasonally adjusted 287,000, the Labor Department said Thursday. The less volatile 4-week average climbed 4,500 to 277,000.

Over the past 12 months, the number of people receiving benefits has fallen 7.1 per cent to 2.2 million.

THE TAKEAWAY: The influx of part-time, seasonal jobs during the winter holidays can make the jobless claims figures volatile, but the employment gains of the past year look likely to continue. Applications for benefits are a proxy for layoffs, so the low level indicates that employers are keeping their workers and potentially planning to hire.

KEY DRIVERS: Businesses still view the U.S. economy as growing, despite the manufacturing sector struggling amid a broader global slowdown. Employers have hired about 210,000 workers a month this year. And unemployment last month held at a seven-year low 5 per cent.

Despite last week’s increase, jobless claims have stayed below the key level of 300,000 for nearly 10 months. Any figure lower than that threshold often corresponds with monthly job gains in excess of 200,000.

BIG PICTURE: The economy enters 2016 with the job market looking solid. The slow recovery from the Great Recession that ended more than six years ago has found some traction. Americans have increased their purchases of autos, homes, restaurant meals and goods online. Still, low oil prices and weak international demand stemming from Europe, China and several emerging economies such as Brazil are sources of concern.