News Summary: US unemployment claims edge up

APPLICATIONS RISE: The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits rose last week to a seasonally adjusted 367,000. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, was unchanged at 375,000.

CONTEXT: When applications consistently fall below 375,000, it typically indicates that hiring is strong enough to lower the unemployment rate. Applications have mostly stayed near or above that level since the spring, coinciding with a weak stretch of hiring.

UP NEXT, JOBS REPORT: The government reports Friday on September hiring. There are only two employment reports left before Election Day, so Friday's figures could have a major impact on the presidential campaign.