Q2 Economic Activity Update

Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in April for the fifth consecutive month, and the overall economy grew for the 47th consecutive month, say the nation’s supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report on Business. The report was issued recently by Bradley J. Holcomb, chair of the Institute for Supply Management™ Manufacturing Business Survey Committee.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 14 are reporting growth in April. Examples of these high-growth industries include Furniture & Related Products; Appliances & Components; Machinery; Plastics & Rubber Products; Transportation Equipment; and Computer & Electronic Products.

Increased economic activity in the manufacturing sector indicates an overall more confident nation in terms of the economy and the impact of federal policies on capital expenditures. At the same time, there continues to be a solid supply of capital available at low rates. Read more.