Mixed Current Indicators
The general activity index fell to 1.3, its lowest since January. About 24% of firms reported increased activity, while 23% saw declines. The new orders index improved slightly but remained negative at -2.2. The shipments index dropped to -7.2. Employment remained weak, with the index at -2.5, indicating a continued decline despite a slight improvement.
Rising Prices
Price pressures increased, with the prices paid index rising to 22.5, and the prices received index climbing to 13.7. Nearly 26% of firms reported higher input prices, while 14% noted higher prices for their goods.
Production and Capacity Utilization
Half of the firms reported increased production for Q2 compared to Q1, while capacity utilization remained stable at 70-80%. Labor supply constraints eased slightly, but energy market concerns grew.