-->U.S. jobless claims unexpectedly rise

By Rachel Koning, CBS.MarketWatch.com
Last Update: 8:50 AM ET June 5, 2003


WASHINGTON (CBS.MW) - For a 14th week, average filings for U.S. state unemployment benefits held above the key 400,000 mark economists consider the dividing line between an improving and worsening labor market.



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The less-volatile four-week moving average stands at 430,500 from 427,500, the Labor Department said Thursday.

Initial filings for state unemployment benefits rose by 16,000 to 442,000 in just the week ended last Saturday. It's the highest level in more than a month and the 16th week above 400,000. The unexpected rise comes at a time economists were guessing the level would start to fall