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 – July 2021 Report
The Chicago Business Barometer™, produced with MNI, jumped to 73.4 in July, both a two-month high and the second highest pandemic-era reading. Demand is strong but firms remain concerned about supply chain disruptions and rising prices.
Among the main five indicators, Production saw the largest increase, followed by New Orders, while Supplier Deliveries remained unchanged.
Production saw the biggest gain in July, up 8.8 points, as demand remained high and some firms benefited from supply chain issues. The index now stands at a two-month high. New Orders increased 5.4 points, signalling strong demand.
Order Backlogs advanced 3.4 points, also hitting a twomonth high. Companies noted a lack of raw materials and warehouse personnel, leading to an increased backlog of work.
Inventories gained 5.1 points in July, although it has been in contraction since April.
Demand for labor increased 3.4 points in July. Anecdotal evidence showed that firms planned to hire new employees, but staff availability remains subdued.
Supplier Deliveries remained at June's level in July, still at the highest level since March 1974. Delivery delays and a lack of workforce availability remained a problem, firms noted.
Prices paid at the factory gate eased slightly, down 0.3 points but remained at a historically high level. Higher prices for materials and freight were again a major concern for survey respondents.
SPECIAL QUESTION
This month's first special question asked, "What is your planned business activity growth forecast for the second half of 2021?" The majority (48.8%) expect growth to be between 5% and 10%. The second question asked, "Is your company looking at the current inflationary pressures as transitory; in agreement with the Fed?". The majority (37.2%) was unsure.
Click below for the full press release:
MNI_Chicago_Press_Release_-2021-07.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.