Manufacturing Confidence measures the level of optimism that manufacturing executives have about the current and future business environment. It is a leading indicator of economic health as businesses react quickly to market conditions, and their sentiment can signal future changes in production and investment. High readings suggest expansion in the industrial sector, while low readings may indicate a slowdown.
The index is typically derived from a monthly survey of manufacturing firms. Respondents are asked to rate the relative level of business conditions including employment, production, new orders, prices, and inventories.
| Date | Actual | Forecast | Surprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 24, 2013 | -0.10 | — | — |
| Nov 25, 2013 | -0.40 | — | — |
| Oct 25, 2013 | -0.50 | — | — |
| Sep 24, 2013 | -2.80 | — | — |
| Aug 27, 2013 | -1.60 | — | — |
| Jul 25, 2013 | -3.50 | — | — |
| Jun 24, 2013 | -4.10 | — | — |
| May 27, 2013 | -4.20 | — | — |
| Apr 24, 2013 | -5.60 | — | — |
