US JOBLESS CLAIMS FELL TO 194 , 000 LAST WEEK , LOWEST SINCE JULY

What happened: U.S. unemployment claims fell to 194,000 last week, down from 200,000 the week before, the lowest level in three months. Key numbers: 194,000 claims last week; 200,000 prior week; four-week average 197,750; claims never topped 230,000 in a single week this year; unemployment rate 4.2% Why it matters: The report signals layoffs remain low and most Americans have job security, even as higher energy prices since fighting with Iran began Feb. 28 have squeezed businesses and consumers. Hiring has been sluggish, producing what the article calls a "low-hire, low-fire" job market. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

U.S. unemployment claims fell to 194,000 last week, down from 200,000 the week before, the lowest level in three months.

The report signals layoffs remain low and most Americans have job security, even as higher energy prices since fighting with Iran began Feb. 28 have squeezed businesses and consumers. Hiring has been sluggish, producing what the article calls a "low-hire, low-fire" job market.