The data from the Labor Department revealed on Thursday the number of applications for unemployment benefits rose more than expected last week, pointing to some slowing in the labor market. 

According to the report, the initial claims for unemployment benefits increased 8,000 to 225,000 for the week ended February 23. 

Economists had expected 220,000 new claims last week. 

Claims for the prior week were revised upwardly to 217,000 from the initial estimate of 216,000. 

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of claims fell 7,000 to 229,000 last week.