Total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 295,000 in February, compared with an average monthly gain of 266,000 over the prior 12 months. Analysts were anticipating smaller increase by 240,000. Job gains occurred in food services and drinking places, professional and business services, construction, health care, and in transportation and warehousing. Employment in mining declined over the month. Unemployment rate edged down to 5.5%, beating expectations on a decline to 5.6%.
Separate report on
Trade Balance showed that that
the goods and services deficit was $41.8 billion in January, in line with market forecasts and down $3.8 billion from $45.6 billion in December, revised. January exports were $189.4 billion, down $5.6 billion from December. January imports were $231.2 billion, down $9.4 billion from December.
After the data USD strengthen against its major rivals. Euro fell even below 1.09 handle, Sterling is below 1.51 handle, while Aussie is just few points above 0.77 handle.