Chicago Manufacturing Expands at Slower Pace

Chicago, IL, March 31, 2014 -- Manufacturing activity in the Chicago area grew at a slower rate in March.

The Chicago PMI fell to 55.9 in March from a reading of 59.8 in February. Analysts had expected the index to decline to 59.0 in March.

The new orders index declined to 58.8 in March from 63.6 in February, while the employment index dropped to 50.0 from 59.3.

Readings above 50 indicate expansion.