Economy
Chicago Business Barometer Indicates Slower Growth
Written by Sandy Williams
November 28, 2014
The Chicago Business Barometer dropped 5.4 points to 60.8 in November, wiping out October’s sharp increase, and moving closer to September’s level of 60.5. Manufacturing growth continues but at a slower pace.
New orders slid 11.7 points to 61.9 following a one year high in October. Overall, barring an unexpected December decline, orders should be higher in Q4 than Q3.
Production growth slowed as well in November but exceeds its 10 year average and the average for the past 12 months.
Inventory levels were considered about right for 66 percent of those surveyed. Supplier delivery times were shorter for the second consecutive month after increasing for five months.
Commenting on the Chicago Report, Philip Uglow, Chief Economist of MNI Indicators said, “Following the sharp rise in the Barometer to a one year high in October it wasn’t too surprising to see activity ease somewhat in November. Overall the trend remains firm and activity looks set to pick up in Q4 from Q3.”
Sandy Williams
Read more from Sandy WilliamsLatest in Economy
US sets Section 232 tariffs on trucks and buses
Medium- and heavy-duty trucks (MHDV) and buses imported to the US will start being charged Section 232 tariffs beginning Nov. 1.
AMU: Consumer auto delinquencies: Warning sign for consumer health?
The Consumer Federation of America estimates rising total auto debt at a staggering $1.66 trillion, along with increasing repossessions and a sharp increase in delinquencies.
Beige Book: Regional market growth remains mostly flat
Economic growth in some US regions in September was offset by challenges in others, causing the market to appear largely unchanged overall, according to the Federal Reserve’s latest Beige Book report.
ISM September survey captures deepening manufacturing gloom
The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) latest monthly report on manufacturing reflects a bleak view of American industry in September.
Key industries concerned over government shutdown’s impact on steel, manufacturing
Trade groups cautioned that a prolonged shutdown could strain US industry.