US applications for jobless benefits inch higher but remain at historically healthy levels

[Collection]The number of Americans applying for jobless benefits increased slightly last week but remains relatively low, despite the Federal Reserve's efforts to cool the economy and control inflation. Unemployment claims rose by 5,000 to 217,000 for the week ending October 28. The four-week moving average of claims also ticked up by 2,000 to 210,000. However, the American labor market continues to show resilience, with the economy adding jobs and consumer spending remaining strong.