The data from the Labor Department revealed on Thursday the number of applications for unemployment benefits fell to a 49-1/2-year low last week, pointing to sustained labor market strength.

According to the report, the initial claims for unemployment benefits decreased 8,000 to 196,000 for the week ended April 6, the lowest level since early October 1969.

Economists had expected 211,000 new claims last week.

Claims for the prior week were revised upwardly to 204,000 from the initial estimate of 202,000.

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of claims dropped 7,000 to 207,000 last week, the lowest level since early December 1969.