Economy

Modest Rise in Empire State Manufacturing Index

Written by Sandy Williams


A six point increase to 10.1 in the general business index of the Empire State Manufacturing survey indicated a modest rise in manufacturing activity in April. New York manufacturers reported a slight rise in new orders and shipments. The new orders index rose to 7.5 from 3.0 in March, while the shipments index increased to 8.6 from 7.7.

Input prices and prices received moved lower during the month with the prices paid index falling seven points to 27.3 and the prices received index declining four points to 14.0. Inventories and delivery times both increased.

Optimism waned in April, according to survey results. The future business conditions index fell 17 points to 12.4, its lowest level in three years. Indexes for future new orders and shipments fell 8.5 points and 5.0 points, respectively.

The Empire State Manufacturing Index, published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, is the first of the regional Federal Reserve surveys to be released each month. When looked at together, the regional indexes provide insight on the U.S. manufacturing business cycle.

Below is a graph showing the history of the Empire State Manufacturing Index. To use its interactive features, view the graph on our website by clicking here. If you need assistance logging into or navigating the website, please contact us at info@SteelMarketUpdate.com.

Latest in Economy

CRU: Dollar and bond yields rise, metal prices fall as Trump wins election

Donald Trump has won the US presidential election. The Republican party has re-taken control of the Senate. Votes are still being counted in many tight congressional races. But based on results so far, the Republicans seem likely to maintain control of the House of Representatives. If confirmed, this will give Trump considerable scope to pass legislation pursuing his agenda. What this means for US policy is not immediately obvious. Trump will not be inaugurated until Jan. 20. In the coming weeks and months, he will begin to assemble his cabinet, which may give a clearer signal on his policy priorities and approaches. Based on statements he made during the presidential campaign, we have set out the likely direction of his economic policy here and green policy here.