US Job Market Sees Modest Gains in March

Nonfarm payrolls in the US rose by 178,000 in March, boosting the economy.

The unemployment rate dipped slightly to 4.3%.

The labor force shrank by 396,000 workers, hitting participation lows not seen since late 2021.

Health care led job gains, adding a substantial 76,000 positions.

Construction industry added 26,000 jobs, offering a solid boost.

On the downside, the federal government shed 18,000 jobs.

Average hourly earnings ticked up by 0.2%, reflecting slower growth.

The US stock market was closed for Good Friday when the report was released.