Richmond Fed Index

Prior: 9

Market Expects 5-15

Actual 5

“Highlights
Growth in manufacturing activity in the Richmond Fed’s district for December eased a bit but remained positive. The composite index of manufacturing activity lost four points, settling at 5 from November’s reading of 9. Among the index’s components, shipments fell five points to 6, the gauge for new orders was almost unchanged at 10, and the jobs index turned negative, losing six points to minus 3.

Survey assessments of current prices indicated that raw materials prices grew on par with November, while finished goods prices grew at a slightly slower rate.

Looking forward, assessments of business prospects for the next six months were less optimistic in December as the index of expected shipments lost eight points, ending at a reading of 20, and the new orders index dropped thirteen points to finish at 12.”

Full report