Initial jobless claims rose by 7,000 to a total of 225,000, the US Department of Labor reported today. The previous week’s level was revised upward by 1,000.

The Wall Street Journal noted claims remained near historically low levels, suggesting many employers continue to hold onto their employees.

Meanwhile, the four-week moving average of initial claims fell by 250 in the week ended Nov. 5 to a level of 218,750.