The Richmond Manufacturing Index for the United States turned negative in September 2026, signaling a downturn in regional factory activity. The index fell to -2 in September from 4 in August 2026, according to data updated on 22 September 2026.
The move from positive to negative territory suggests that manufacturing conditions in the Richmond Federal Reserve district have softened over the month, reflecting a modest contraction after previously indicating expansion. While the shift is not steep, the negative reading points to increasing headwinds for the sector heading into the final quarter of the year. Investors and analysts will be watching subsequent releases closely to gauge whether September’s decline marks the start of a weaker trend in regional manufacturing or a temporary setback.
