New data from the U.S. Labor Department shows jobless claims rose more than expected last week, reaching a four-month high, though economists say the labor market remains stable.

The increase to 225,000 claims was partly attributed to seasonal effects around the Memorial Day holiday rather than a clear weakening in employment conditions.

Analysts described the broader trend as a “low fire, low hire” environment, with layoffs still historically low despite some job cuts in sectors like technology.

Continuing claims and other indicators suggest hiring remains cautious but steady, with no strong evidence yet of widespread labor market deterioration, Reuters has reported.

However, economists warn that prolonged economic or geopolitical uncertainty could eventually begin to pressure employment.