Jobs data disappoint, but unemployment rate drops

American employers added 148,000 jobs in September, lower than economists' expectations, in a report delayed by the government shutdown.

The unemployment rate dropped to a five-year 7.2% low, down from 7.3% the previous month, according to figures released October 22. Economists had expected a 185,000 jobs gain in the month. Generally, economists say the U.S. economy remains fragile.