The number of workers filing new unemployment claims has unexpectedly risen in the United States.
Applications for jobless benefits increased by 2000 last week, sending total claims to a six-month high.
The Labor Department said on Thursday the number of new claims for jobless benefits is now 484,000 for the week ended 7 August.
The ABC reports the data has fuelled concerns about the US recovery, which will take a lot longer if job growth continues to stagnate.