U.S. employers pulled back on hiring in April for the second straight month, evidence of an economy still growing only sluggishly. The unemployment rate dipped, but only because more people gave up looking for work.

The number of people seeking unemployment benefits fell last week by the most in more than three months. The figure was a hopeful sign one day before the government releases the April jobs report.

The U.S. economy grew more slowly in the first three months of this year. Governments spent less, and businesses cut back on investment. But consumers spent at the fastest pace in more than a year.

Fewer U.S. states reported job gains last month, reflecting a slower pace of hiring nationwide.

The number of people seeking U.S. unemployment benefits suggests hiring is slowing.

A healthier job market and warmer weather encouraged more Americans to shop in March.

More people sought unemployment benefits last week, pushing the number of applicants to the highest level in two months.

A Federal Reserve survey of business conditions across the United States suggests last month's pullback in hiring may prove to be temporary.