Job creation in Canada unexpectedly stalled in October after two straight strong showings, as declines in the country’s manufacturing and construction sectors was offset by hiring in the government sector.

Despite the setback, the unemployment rate was unchanged and close to a four-decade low. Employment growth on a one-year basis remains elevated on a historical level, fueled by full-time job creation. And average hourly wages surged on an annual basis by over 4% for a fifth straight month.

The Canadian economy shed a net 1,800 jobs in October on a seasonally-adjusted basis, Statistics Canada said Friday. Market expectations were for a 17,000 gain, according to economists at TD Bank.

This follows notable employment gains of 81,000 and 54,000 in August and September, respectively. Canad

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