The February Manufacturing Index from @KansasCityFed rose to 5, surpassing the estimate of 2 and the prior figure of 0. Underlying data indicates shipments came in at 11 versus the prior -2, while new orders reached 7 against a previous 0. Additionally, prices paid tracked at 42 compared to the prior 44.
Here is an update on the latest labor statistics. Initial jobless claims have climbed to 212k, which stands against the 208k prior figure and the 216k estimate. Regarding continuing claims, the total is now 1.833M, compared to the 1.858M forecast and the previous reading of 1.864. When analyzing specific regions, we observed the most substantial rises in RI (+1.5k), OK (+0.63k), and OR (+0.61k). In contrast, the largest declines occurred in MI (-3.6k), NY (-2.6k), and OH (-2.1k).
According to the latest findings from @Conferenceboard, consumer optimism regarding the labor market improved during February. The percentage of individuals reporting that jobs were plentiful climbed to 28%, marking the highest level seen in three months.
The latest MBA data indicates that mortgage applications increased by +0.4%, following the +2.8% gain seen in the prior week. Furthermore, refinancing activity rose by +4.1%, compared to the +7.1% increase recorded previously.
Median number of days a home sat on the market in January was 66, up from 59 days in 2025; last comparable level was back in January 2017 @DataArbor
We have refreshed the performance data. Both the index tables and the Mag7 chart and table are now updated to reflect the numbers through yesterday's close.