Economy
April 1, 2021
Chicago Business Barometer Soars in March
Written by Sandy Williams
The Chicago Business Barometer reached its highest level since July 2018, soaring to 66.3 in March from 59.5 in February, reports MNI indicators. For the first quarter of 2021, the index gained 4.4 points for a reading of 63.2, the best result since Q3 2018.
The production index soared 10.1 points to 72.0 in March for a three-year high. The new orders index climbed 7.1 points to 62.3. Firms in the survey were optimistic and noted a pick-up in business. Employment expanded above 50 for the first time since June 2019, gaining 5.5 points.
