Odaily Planet Daily News: The number of initial unemployment claims in the United States fell last week, but the number of re-employment opportunities for the unemployed is becoming increasingly rare, indicating that the unemployment rate may remain high in August. Data released on Thursday showed that the number of initial unemployment claims fell by 2,000 in the week ending August 24 to 231,000 after seasonal adjustment. Economists surveyed had previously expected the number of initial unemployment claims to be 232,000 last week. Initial unemployment claims fell from an 11-month high in late July due to temporary shutdowns at auto plants and the fading impact of Hurricane Beryl. They remain at a level consistent with a steady cooling of the labor market, which should help ease concerns about a rapid deterioration in the economy. (Jinshi)