U.S. Non-Manufacturing Index Rises

Jan. 13, 2005
By John S. McClenahen As in manufacturing, business activity in the non-manufacturing sector of the U.S. economy increased in December, according to data released Jan. 5 by the Tempe, Ariz.-based Institute for Supply Management (ISM). Its ...
ByJohn S. McClenahen As in manufacturing, business activity in the non-manufacturing sector of the U.S. economy increased in December, according to data released Jan. 5 by the Tempe, Ariz.-based Institute for Supply Management (ISM). Its non-manufacturing index was at 63.1%, up 1.8 percentage points from 61.3% in November. That's the index's highest level since the 64.8% recorded in July 2004. A figure above 50% generally indicates the non-manufacturing sector is expanding; a figure below 50% signals it is contracting. Both new orders and inventories increased faster in December than in November. Employment among non-manufacturers also increased in December, but at a slower pace than in November. The monthly ISM non-manufacturing index is based on data from more than 370 purchasing and supply executives in 62 industries including mining, construction, agriculture, and finance and banking.

Sponsored Recommendations

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!