US open: Markets open lower amid increase in jobless claims

US markets continued low on Thursday after jobless claims unexpectedly rose last week.

Figures released by the Labor Department on Thursday showed the number of Americans filing claims for unemployment increased last week to a seasonally adjusted 315,000 for the week ended 6 September, its highest level since the end of June.

Job growth came to a halt in August with only 142,000 new jobs created, the first time in six months the number of job increases has failed to rise above the 200,000 mark.

Treasury prices climbed on Thursday and remained in line to push yields lower for the first time in six days, as investors reacted to Washington’s decision to extend air strikes against Islamic State militants to Syria and the 10-year note was down two basis points at 2.516%.

Radioshack dropped in pre-market trade as the electronics retailer announced it was in advanced talks with a number of parties over plans for its future, which might include store consolidation and debt restructuring, though it rebounded strongly soon after the bell.

Lululemon shares rose sharply as the yoga-equipment maker increased its outlook for the year after second quarter results exceeded analysrs forecast, while Kroger shares rose slightly as the grocery chain announced it had exceeded second quarter expectations in both revenue and earnings.

Restoration Hardware Holdings was down almost 3% early on as the high-end home goods retailer reported second quarter earnings below expectations.

The dollar was receding against both the euro and the pound, losing 0.2% and 0.3% against the currencies, respectively, though it did reach a six-year high against the yen, while the ruble fell after the announcement that new sanctions against Russia will come into effect on Friday.

Brent crude fell to a two-year low amid signs of excess supply, as the International Energy Agency slashed its global oil demand forecast following a decision by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to lower its outlook.