The number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits fell last week as companies hoard labor, suggesting the economy maintained a steady pace of job growth in May, but it is becoming harder for those out of work to find new opportunities.

Applications for US unemployment benefits fell to a four-week low, adding to evidence that the job market remains healthy in the face of growing uncertainty tied to trade policy.

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits dropped last week, suggesting the economy maintained a steady pace of job growth in May, though it is becoming harder for those out of work to find new opportunities.