Economy

Chicago Business Barometer Climbs in January
Written by Sandy Williams
January 29, 2021
Business activity accelerated in the Chicago area in January, says the latest analysis by MNI Indicators and the Institute for Supply Management. The Chicago Business Barometer jumped 5.1 points to 63.8, its highest level since July 2018.
Production soared 9.9 points along with a 7.9-point surge in new orders. Order backlogs expanded for a third month, gaining 5.9 points and reaching a 23-month high.
Inventories rose above the 50 no-change mark for the first time since May, gaining 6.2 points for the highest index level since October 2018. The supplier delivery index eased slightly, but firms continued to report logistical issues and delays.
The employment index dropped 4.5 points for a 19th consecutive month in contraction.
Factory gate prices rose 1.7 points to their highest level since September 2018. Higher steel prices, in particular, were cited by manufacturing firms.
The latest surge in COVID infection rates had little to no impact on most manufacturers in January.
Below is a graph showing the history of the Chicago Business Barometer. You will need to view the graph on our website to use its interactive features; you can do so by clicking here. If you need assistance logging into or navigating the website, please contact us at info@SteelMarketUpdate.com.

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.
