Leading Economic Index Declines in September after Two Flat Months

New York, NY, October 23, 2015—The Conference Board Leading Economic Index (LEI) for the U.S. declined 0.2% in September to 123.3 (2010 = 100). The Index was unchanged in August and July.  

"Despite September's decline, the U.S. LEI still suggests economic expansion will continue, although at a moderate pace," said Ataman Ozyildirim, director of business cycles and growth research at The Conference Board. "The recent weakness in stock markets, the manufacturing sector and housing permits was offset by gains in financial indicators, and to a lesser extent improvements in consumer expectations and initial claims for unemployment insurance. The U.S. economy is on track for moderate growth of about 2.5 percent in the coming quarters, despite the mixed global economic landscape."

The Conference Board Coincident Economic Index (CEI) for the U.S. increased 0.2% in September to 112.8 (2010 = 100), following a 0.1% increase in August, and a 0.3% increase in July.

The Conference Board Lagging Economic Index (LAG) for the U.S. increased 0.5% in September to 119.0 (2010 = 100), following a 0.1% increase in August, and a 0.4% increase in July.