A. M. 
The unemployment rate in the United States rose to 4.4% in february, up from 4.3% the previous month, amid signs of a weakening labor market. According to international media reports, the US economy also lost approximately 92,000 jobs during that month, according to figures released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The result surprised analysts and economists, who had expected the country to add around 60,000 new jobs in February. Instead of that moderate growth, the labor market reflected a contraction in hiring.
Adjustment to january figures
Reports also indicate that January’s employment data was revised downward. Initially, 130,000 jobs were reported, but the figure was later adjusted to 126,000.
January’s performance had been considered strong, although some economists pointed out that it may have been influenced by temporary factors, such as weather conditions that favored certain economic activities.
Healthcare strike impacted the result
Another factor that may have impacted on the february report was the strike by workers at the Kaiser Permanente healthcare system, which occurred in the middle of the month and ended on february 23.
Analysts cited by international media outlets indicate that this work stoppage may have temporarily reduced the number of jobs reported. With the strike ending before the end of the month, the return of workers is expected to boost the march employment report.
Market reaction
Following the release of the data, financial markets reacted cautiously. US stock futures fell after the jobs report was published.
Dow Jones futures dropped 376 points, equivalent to a 0.78% decline. Meanwhile, S&P 500 futures fell 0.83%, while Nasdaq 100 futures declined by about 1%.
Movement in bonds, dollar, and oil
In the fixed-income market, yields on two- and ten-year Treasury bonds declined slightly, as some investors moved toward assets considered safer.
Meanwhile, the US dollar weakened against several international currencies after the report’s release. In contrast, the price of crude oil rose 6.2%, reaching approximately US$86 per barrel. Outlook for the Coming Months
Experts indicate that employment figures for March will be key in determining whether the decline recorded in February was a temporary effect or the beginning of a more pronounced slowdown in the U.S. labor market.
The return of workers after the healthcare strike could be reflected in a partial recovery in employment in the next report, which will be closely watched by analysts and investors worldwide.
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