The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the United States recorded a slight decrease in February 2025. The PMI, which is a key indicator of economic health in the manufacturing sector, experienced a drop to 50.3, down from 50.9 in January 2025.
The newly released data, updated as of March 3, 2025, provides insight into the manufacturing sector's slow pace in February. A reading above 50 indicates expansion in the manufacturing industry, whereas a reading below signifies contraction. The current reading suggests that while the industry is still in expansion territory, the rate of growth has slowed compared to the previous month.
This decrease follows previous fluctuations in the index and underlines a period of cautious optimism as manufacturers navigate the challenges facing the global and domestic economy. Analysts will be closely watching upcoming reports to gauge if this slowdown continues or if the industry can regain momentum in the coming months.
