Research >> Economics
ISM Non-Manufacturing Index grew slower at 56.5%
|
Economic activity in the non-manufacturing sector grew in March for the 62nd consecutive month, say the nation’s purchasing and supply executives in the latest Non-Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®.
TThe NMI® registered 56.5 percent in March, 0.4 percentage point lower than the February reading of 56.9 percent. This represents continued growth in the non-manufacturing sector. The Non-Manufacturing Business Activity Index decreased to 57.5 percent, which is 1.9 percentage points lower than the February reading of 59.4 percent, reflecting growth for the 68th consecutive month at a slower rate. The New Orders Index registered 57.8 percent, 1.1 percentage points higher than the reading of 56.7 percent registered in February. The Employment Index increased 0.2 percentage point to 56.6 percent from the February reading of 56.4 percent and indicates growth for the 13th consecutive month. The Prices Index increased 2.7 percentage points from the February reading of 49.7 percent to 52.4 percent, indicating prices increased in March after three consecutive months of decreasing. According to the NMI®, 14 non-manufacturing industries reported growth in March. The majority of respondents’ comments reflect stability and are mostly positive about business conditions and the overall economy.
INDUSTRY PERFORMANCE
The 14 non-manufacturing industries reporting growth in March — listed in order — are: Management of Companies & Support Services; Real Estate, Rental & Leasing; Accommodation & Food Services; Transportation & Warehousing; Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting; Arts, Entertainment & Recreation; Retail Trade; Finance & Insurance; Public Administration; Information; Wholesale Trade; Professional, Scientific & Technical Services; Health Care & Social Assistance; and Construction. The four industries reporting contraction in March are: Mining; Educational Services; Other Services; and Utilities.
Posted: April 6, 2015 Monday 10:00 AM