The Electroindustry Business Confidence Index (EBCI) for current North American conditions fell 5.7 points in December to 48.2, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) reported on Dec. 30.
The index failed to top the critical 50-point threshold for the first time since July, indicating modest deterioration in the business environment following a period of steady, if slow, growth over the last several months.
By contrast, EBCI for future North American conditions rebounded in December following declines in each of the two previous months. At 64.3, the index posted its tenth straight reading above 50, with a 6.3 point gain relative to November suggesting the degree of anticipated improvement in conditions over the next half year increased in the latest month.
The Electroindustry Business Confidence Index gauges the business confidence of the electroindustry in Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America. Companies included in the index represent more than 80% of the electroindustry.
NEMA is the association of electrical and medical imaging equipment manufacturers. Worldwide sales of NEMA-scope products exceed $120 billion.
To view the report visit http://www.nema.org/econ/ebci/index.cfm
