The U.S. Labor Department released the labour market data on Friday. The U.S. economy added 215,000 jobs in July, missing expectations for a rise of 223,000 jobs, after a gain of 231,000 jobs in June. June's figure was revised up from a rise of 223,000 jobs.

The increase was driven by a rise in construction and manufacturing employment. Construction added 6,000 jobs in July, while the manufacturing sector added 2,000 jobs.

Factory employment climbed by 15,000, while mining sector shed 4,000 jobs.

The U.S. unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.3% in July, in line with expectations. It was the lowest level since April 2008.

Average hourly earnings rose 0.2% in July, in line with forecasts, after a flat reading in June.

The labour-force participation rate remained unchanged at 62.6% in July. It was the lowest level since October 1977.

These figures added to speculation that the Fed may start to hike its interest rate soon, despite the weak wage growth figures and low inflation.