"For those looking for a rebound in the economy after the lackluster start to the year, the deteriorating trend in manufacturing is not going to provide any comfort".
- Chris Williamson, Markit's chief economist
The data for US ISM manufacturing data was stronger than analysts' estimations showing an advance to 51.3 (May) from 50.8 booked in the previous month. The consensus expectation, in turn was 50.5. Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in May for the third consecutive month, while the overall economy grew for the 84th consecutive month, according to the ISM report. The Prices Index in turn, registered 63.5, an advance of 4.5 points from the April reading of 59, indicating higher raw materials prices for the third consecutive month. The main influence on the PMI release was raised due to the decline in production volumes. The following release shows that the sector expanded in May for a third straight month, despite the forecasts of a negative movement following several weak regional surveys. Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 12 are reporting rise in May. The top gainers are wood products, textile mills and printing & related Support Activities. However, the six industries, in turn, reported contraction in May which are: apparel, leather & allied products and petroleum & coal Products.
Speculation in recent weeks that the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates in the next few months, concerns about Chinese economic growth as well as worries about possible British exit from the European Union, are all factors that affect global manufacturing.
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