New data show a sharp rise in U.S. core capital goods orders in March 2026, pointing to a potential rebound in business spending. Orders for non-defense capital goods excluding aircraft — a key proxy for business investment — increased by 3.3% month-over-month, up from a 0.6% rise in February 2026.
The March figures, updated on 29 April 2026, indicate a significant acceleration in demand after the more modest gain recorded in the previous month. On a month-over-month basis, the “actual” reading for March compares the change in orders to February, while the “previous” February figure reflects the change from January to February.
The stronger March growth suggests that U.S. companies may be stepping up investment in equipment and machinery, a development that could support broader economic activity if the trend continues in the coming months.
