Economic Indicators Improve, but…

April 01, 2024

Leading economic indicators increased in February 2024 for the first time since February 2022. The Leading Economic Index (LEI) from The Conference Board reports a 0.1 percent increase in February. This follows at 0.4 percent decline in January. Over the six months ending in February 2024 the LEI contracted by 2.6 percent, which was an improvement from the 3.8 percent decline in the previous six-month period.  

Strength was seen in weekly hours worked in manufacturing, stock prices, credit profiles and residential construction.

The Conference Board cautions that consumer expectations have not recovered and that headwinds to economic growth could surface.  

Founded in 1916, The Conference Board is a non-profit, member-driven think tank that delivers trusted Insights including the LEI. April 18 is the next LEI report date.