US real gross domestic product grew at an annual rate of 2.1% in the fourth quarter in a third estimate released today, according to the US Commerce Department. The new estimate is slightly up from the second estimate of 1.9%.

In the third quarter, real GDP increased 3.5%.

Real GDP grew faster than the forecast of a 2.0% advance in the fourth quarter, Bloomberg reported. The data reinforce the underlying story of the US economy: the seven-year expansion continues to be led by consumers, who are cushioned by a firm labor market and rising confidence. At the same time, rising corporate profits could provide continued momentum for hiring and support further capital investment.

Separately, seasonally adjusted numbers released today by the US Department of Labor show the US four-week moving average of initial claims for unemployment insurance rose to 254,250 last week, up 7,750 from the previous week’s unrevised average.

The four-week moving average decreases the volatility of the weekly numbers. Total initial claims for unemployment insurance for the week ended March 25 fell to 258,000, down 3,000 from the previous week’s unrevised level.