The Dallas Fed’s general business activity index for Texas manufacturing edged up to 1.3 in July 2026 from 0 in June, signaling a modest improvement in overall conditions. Broader sentiment strengthened notably: the company outlook index jumped 11 points to 13.4, while the uncertainty index declined to 6.4 from 10.9.
Manufacturing activity accelerated, with the production index rising to 10.1 from 4.1, supported by firmer new orders (6.4 vs. 2.3) and higher shipments (8.8 vs. 7.1). Finished goods inventories continued to contract, with the related index falling to 1.5 from 7.8, while delivery times lengthened slightly (2.3 vs. 0.9).
Labor market conditions were broadly steady, though there were modest signs of cooling: the employment index eased to 12.2 from 13.9, and hours worked slipped to 4.3 from 5.9. In contrast, the wages and benefits index rose to 30.8 from 25.8, pointing to ongoing compensation pressures.
Price pressures remained elevated, even as both input and selling prices showed slight moderation. Looking ahead, firms continue to anticipate solid manufacturing activity over the next six months. Expectations for future production (34.6) and general business activity (26.5) were little changed, indicating sustained optimism about the medium-term outlook.
