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 BarometerTM, produced with MNI, rose to 65.2 in January, following an upwards adjustment in December to 64.3 from 63.1.
Among the main five indicators, Order Backlogs, Employment and Supplier Deliveries were higher. Production and New Orders fell across the month. Prices Paid softened 1.9 points to an eight-month low of 89.0, just below the high 12-month average of 89.1.
Supplier Deliveries lengthened to 87.6, although some firms began to see easing of supply chain disruptions. Others found covid outbreaks impacting lead times.
Production slowed 2.4 points to 60.6, almost four points below the 12-month average as labor absences and material shortages reduced production capacities. Employment climbed following three consecutive months of decline, recovering 4.6 points to 49.1 to around August 2021 levels.
NEW ORDERS SLOW
New Orders dampened by 2 points to 65.3 in January, remaining 1.3 points above the 12-month average, despite firms citing seasonal slowdowns. Order Backlogs inched up 3.2 points to 61.9, below the 12-month average of 66.8.
Inventories dropped 5.8 points to 54.8. Firms expressed persistent shortages of raw materials, chemicals and packaging were depleting stocks. This month we asked firms “Are you seeing any easing up in the supply chain blockages yet?” The largest share (59.5%) said no, whilst 37.8% said yes and somewhat.
We also asked, “After the staffing issues seen in 2021, are you planning to take a deeper look at automation /artificial intelligence/digital technology in 2022?” to which 38.9% said no, whilst 33.3% said yes. 27.8% were already highly integrated or using hybrid models.
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.