The U.S. services sector strengthened in August 2026, with the ISM Non-Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) climbing to 55.4, up from 54.1 in July 2026. The latest reading, updated on 3 September 2026, signals a faster pace of expansion in the country’s non-manufacturing industries.
A PMI reading above 50 typically indicates expansion, and the move from 54.1 to 55.4 suggests improving business activity and demand across services, including sectors such as finance, retail, transportation, and hospitality. The acceleration in August points to continued resilience in the broader U.S. economy, which is heavily driven by services.
The back-to-back readings above 50 for July and August reinforce the view that the services side of the economy remains a key support for overall growth, even as markets and policymakers closely watch incoming data for signs of changing momentum in the months ahead.
