Chicago PMI Shows More Good Economic News

Chicago, IL, Feb. 29, 2012 -- The Chicago business barometer, also known as the Chicago Purchasing Manager Index, accelerated to a reading of 64.0% in February from 60.2% in January, ISM-Chicago said.

The index measuring production was the highest since April. Also, new orders hit an 11-month high and order backlogs moved out of contraction.

Employment also had the biggest one-month gain since March 2008. Economists had anticipated a small dip to 60.0%.