The data from the Labor Department revealed the number of applications for unemployment benefits unexpectedly rose last week, a sign of possible residual effects of the partial government shutdown. 

According to the report, the initial claims for unemployment benefits increased 4,000 to 239,000 for the week ended February 9. 

Economists had expected 225,000 new claims last week. 

Claims for the prior week were revised upwardly to 235,000 from the initial estimate of 234,000.

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of claims rose 6,750 to 231,750, the highest level since late January 2018.