Why MNI
MNI is the leading provider
of intelligence and analysis on the Global Fixed Income, Foreign Exchange and Energy markets. We use an innovative combination of real-time analysis, deep fundamental research and journalism to provide unique and actionable insights for traders and investors. Our "All signal, no noise" approach drives an intelligence service that is succinct and timely, which is highly regarded by our time constrained client base.Our Head Office is in London with offices in Chicago, Washington and Beijing, as well as an on the ground presence in other major financial centres across the world.
Key Points – December 2020 Report
The Chicago Business Barometer™, produced with MNI, rose 5.1 points to 63.8 in January. The index now stands at the highest level since July 2018, boosted bya pick-up in activity at the beginning of 2021.
Among the main five indicators, Production saw the largest monthly gain, followed by New Orders. Employment recorded the biggest decline. Production surged 9.9 points in January, to the highest level since January 2018. Firms noted an uptick inoutput compared to December, a month often slower due to the holidays.
Demand picked up as well with New Orders surging by 7.9 points to the highest level since November 2018.Order Backlogs grew for the third consecutive month, gaining 6.9 points to a 23-month high. The indicator has been in expansionary territory since September 2020.Inventories continued to rise 6.2 points to the highest level since October 2018, showing the first reading above the 50-mark since May.
Employment slipped 4.5 points in January, recording anineteenth straight reading below the 50-mark.
Supplier Deliveries eased slightly, down 0.5 points inJanuary but remain elevated. Anecdotal evidence suggested logistical issues and freight backups leading to delays.
Prices paid at the factory gate increased for the fifth consecutive month, rising 1.7 points in January, to the highest level since September 2018. Manufacturing firms specifically noted higher prices for steel.
SPECIAL QUESTION
This month's special question asked, "How is the recentincrease in Covid-19 infection rates affecting your business?"
The majority, at 50%, reported a mildnegative impact of the recent increase in Covid-19 cases on business, while 31.8% had no impact on their activity.
Just 2.3% of respondents saw a strong positiveimpact on their business and 15.9% noted a strongnegative effect.C
Click below for the full press release:
MNI_Chicago_Press_Release_-2021-01.pdf
For full database history and full report on the Chicago Business Barometer™, please contact:sales@marketnews.com
Why MNI
MNI is the leading provider
of intelligence and analysis on the Global Fixed Income, Foreign Exchange and Energy markets. We use an innovative combination of real-time analysis, deep fundamental research and journalism to provide unique and actionable insights for traders and investors. Our "All signal, no noise" approach drives an intelligence service that is succinct and timely, which is highly regarded by our time constrained client base.Our Head Office is in London with offices in Chicago, Washington and Beijing, as well as an on the ground presence in other major financial centres across the world.