MW: Nov. Chicago PMI rises to 56.1%, a 15-month high
By Rex Nutting
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- More businesses in the Chicago region were expanding in November, according to the Chicago purchasing managers index released Monday by the NAPM-Chicago. The business activity index rose to 56.1% in November from 54.2% in October. It's the highest since August 2008. Readings over 50% indicate more firms said business is getting better than said it was worsening. The new orders index rose to 62.8% from 61.4%, an encouraging sign for future output and hiring. The employment index rose to 41.9% from 38.3%, indicating most firms are still shedding workers.
