A composite index of ten economic indicators that should lead overall economic activity. This indicator was initially compiled by the Commerce Department but is now compiled and produced by The Conference Board. It has been revised many times in the past 30 years - particularly when it has not done a good job of predicting turning points. Why Investors Care
| Released on 12/20/07 For Nov 2007 | ||||||||||||
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Highlights
The Conference Board's index of leading economic indicators fell 0.4 percent in November vs. a 0.5 drop in October. Given quiet conditions today, the results are likely to raise chatter of recession. The report itself said the data point to weak economic growth this winter. Negative factors in the month included stock prices, jobless claims and consumer expectations.
The Conference Board's index of leading indicators fell 0.5 percent in October, following a rise of 0.1 percent in September. The largest negatives in October were building permits, jobless claims, and consumer expectations, offset in part by gains in the stock market, rising money supply, and new orders for manufacturers. Thus far, the index of leading indicators is pointing to only slow growth rather than an outright recession. The index of leading indicators usually does not get much market attention but interest does pick up during periods seen as potential turning points in the economy.
Leading indicators Consensus Forecast for November 07: -0.3 percent
Range: -0.5 to +0.1 percent
| 2007 Release Schedule | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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