US ISM manufacturing index likely eased slightly in April

In March, the US ISM manufacturing index rose to 51.8, crossing the breakeven for the first time since August 2015. However, April’s regional factory data implies that manufacturing activity might have slightly weakened last month, according to Societe Generale. The four regional indices recorded an average ISM-adjusted reading of 50.5.

The ISM manufacturing index is expected to have eased slightly to 51 in April from March’s 51.8, noted Societe Generale. Even if the regional measures indicate a much softer print, March’s strong new orders might have averted the index from falling too much, added Societe Generale.