The U.S. labor market showed signs of strength in April, with hiring momentum topping estimates despite the impact of trade tariffs across industries.
Nonfarm payrolls increased by 177,000 last month, slightly down from a downwardly revised 185,000 in March, according to data released Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The outcome surpassed both economist forecasts for a 130,000 gain and betting markets – tracked by CFTC-regulated platform Kalshi – which had priced in a 90,000 increase.
In April, employment continued to rise across several sectors, including health care, transportation and warehousing, financial activities, and social assistance, while federal government jobs declined.
The health care sector added 51,000 jobs—closely in line with its 12-month average of 52,000. Notable increases were seen in hospitals, up …