The Chicago Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for the United States fell sharply in August 2026, signaling a sudden deterioration in regional business activity. The index dropped to 47.1 in August from 57.6 in July 2026, sliding below the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction.
The reversal suggests that manufacturing and related business conditions in the Chicago area weakened notably over the month, after previously showing solid expansion in July. The updated data, released on 28 August 2026, may raise concern among investors and analysts watching for early signs of slowing momentum in the broader U.S. economy.
