The data from the Labor Department revealed the number of applications for unemployment benefits rose last week, a sign the labor market may be softening somewhat even as it remains strong overall.

According to the report, the initial claims for unemployment benefits increased 6,000 to 229,000 for the week ended March 9. 

Economists had expected 225,000 new claims last week. 

Claims for the prior week were remained unchanged at 223,000.

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of claims dropped fell by 2,500 to 223,750 last week