The Citi Economic Surprise Index continues its relentless slide. The US PMI (52.9 vs. 53.3 expected), the Philadelphia Fed Diffusion Index (-16.6 vs 0 expected), Empire Manufacturing, Industrial Production, etc. are all coming in below expectations. It would seem that economists would adjust their forecasts by now, but that hasn't happened.
Citi Economic Surprise Index |
This is somewhat reminiscent of last summer when a mix of US budget issues and fears in Europe increased market volatility and put downward pressure on economic activity.
SoberLook.com