U.S. jobless claims fall as labor market remains strong

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits unexpectedly fell last week, pointing to sustained labor market strength even as the pace of job growth is slowing. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits decreased 4,000 to a seasonally adjusted 259,000 for the week ended Sept.3, the lowest level since mid-July, the Labor Department said on Thursday. It was the 79th straight week that claims remained below the 300,000 threshold, which is associated with robust labor market conditi