NAPM

Monthly index measuring the overall economy, specifically the overall condition of the manufacturing sector. Previously called the National Association of Purchasing Management (NAPM) Index, the index is computed by surveying purchasing managers’ data on new orders, production, employment, supplier deliveries, inventories, prices, and exports and imports, among others. It is considered one of the most reliable leading indicators for evaluating the US economy. A rating above 50% signals expansion while a reading below 50% denotes constriction.