Economy

Empire State Manufacturing Index Softens in September

September 17, 2018

The Empire State Manufacturing Index slid seven points in September from its 10-month high in August. The general business conditions index showed a slower pace of growth with a reading of 19.0 for the month, below economists’ expectations of 23.

New orders and shipments continued to expand but at a softer rate, falling 0.6 points and 11.4 points on their respective indices.

New York manufacturers noted extended lead times, as well as longer delivery times and higher inventory levels. Prices for raw materials continued to be elevated in September with manufacturers reporting higher input costs and selling prices.

Employment levels increased modestly in September in regard to both jobs and hours worked.

The general business index for the six-month outlook fell five points to 30.3. Firms remained moderately optimistic and are expecting improvements in unfilled orders and delivery times. Inventories were expected to remain about the same for the next two quarters.

The capital expenditures index moved down seven points to 19.5 and the technology spending index fell two points to 10.6.

The Empire State Manufacturing Index is a monthly survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York of approximately 200 manufacturing executives from a wide variety of industries in New York State.