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.
The Chicago Business Barometer™, produced with MNI slipped 3.3 points to 36.9 in December. This is the third consecutive monthly decline, with the index at its lowest since May 2024, and below the 2024 average.
DECLINE DRIVEN BY A FALL IN NEW ORDER AND PRODUCTION
New Orders fell 13.5 points to the second lowest level since May 2020. This was due to over half of respondents reporting fewer new orders for the first time since June 2020.
Production cooled 2.9 points. This is the fourth successive monthly fall with the sub-index at its lowest level since January 2009 (with the exception of Apr-May 2020 during the pandemic).
INCREASE IN EMPLOYMENT, SUPPLIER DELIVERIES AND ORDER BACKLOGS RESTRICTED DOWNWARD MOVE
Employment advanced 11.9 points to the highest level since November 2023, and firmly above the 2024 average. This was driven by an increase in firms keeping employment stable and reviewing future staffing levels.
Supplier Deliveries rebounded 9.7 points, reversing last month’s slide. This leaves the index at its highest since August 2022.
Order Backlogs rose 2.8 points.
Prices Paid softened 5.8 points to the lowest level since July 2024.
Inventories edged down 3.0 points. Outside of March 2020 this leaves the index at its lowest level since October 2009.
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.