Economy
Autumn Boost Expected by Metalformers
Written by Sandy Williams
September 27, 2017
Autumn is expected to bring stronger economic activity and more work for metalforming companies, according to the latest survey by the Precision Metalforming Association.
“Metalforming companies are greeting fall with increased optimism,” said PMA President Roy Hardy. “Predictions from our industry reflect the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report which showed growth through some 36,000 new manufacturing jobs created last month. More work requires more workers so metalformers and our supporters in government should redouble efforts to address the skills gap and provide training opportunities.”
Current daily shipping levels spiked in September, said the PMA. Forty-one percent of survey participants reported shipping levels as higher than three months ago, compared to just 28 percent in August.
Four percent of companies surveyed had workers on short time or layoff in September, compared to 3 percent in August, and 8 percent a year ago.
Sandy Williams
Read more from Sandy WilliamsLatest in Economy
Modest decline in Architecture Billings Index hints at receding slowdown
The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) indicated architecture firm billings continue to decline through February, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and Deltek. While the latest reading does not indicate improving business conditions, it is one of the higher measures seen in recent months, suggesting the recent slowdown may be diminishing.
Manufacturing activity tumbles through March in New York state
New York state manufacturing activity slipped deeper into negative territory this month, according to the latest Empire State Manufacturing Survey from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
AGC: Construction added 23,000 jobs in February
The construction sector added 23,000 jobs in February, boosted by nonresidential, according to the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC).
Dodge Momentum Index dips in February
The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) slipped in February from the previous month, according to the latest Dodge Construction Network (DCN) data.
Fed Beige Book: Economic activity up slightly, manufacturing unchanged
Economic activity across the US increased marginally from early January through the end of February, according to the latest Beige Book report from the US Federal Reserve.