Chicago Business Barometer falls back in April, remains in contraction

The Chicago Business Barometer declined in April, reversing March’s gains, according to Market News International (MNI) and the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). Previously at a 16-month high, the Barometer continues to reflect contracting business conditions, as it has since December 2023.

The Barometer fell by three points in April to 44.6, more than erasing March’s 2.1-point gain. This is a diffusion index, where a reading above 50 indicates improving business conditions and a reading below that indicates contraction.

Brett Linton

Brett Linton is a digital operations analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

Brett Linton

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