U.S. employers added 143,000 jobs last month, somewhat fewer than forecast, while unemployment fell to 4 percent and hourly earnings rose.

Job growth in the US slowed last month but unemployment remained low, in a sign of a solid, if more subdued economy. Employers added 143,000 jobs in January, while the unemployment rate slipped to 4% from 4.

U.S. job growth slowed more than expected in January, likely restrained by wildfires in California and cold weather across much of the country, but a 4.0% unemployment rate probably gives the Federal Reserve cover to hold off cutting interest rates at least until June.