Leading Economic Indicators Rise in November

New York, NY, Dec. 17, 2010 -- The Conference Board Leading Economic Index increased 1.1% in November to 112.4, following a 0.4%t increase in October, and a 0.6% increase in September.

Says Ataman Ozyildirim, economist at The Conference Board: “November’s sharp increase in the LEI, the fifth consecutive gain, is an early sign that the expansion is gaining momentum and spreading. Nearly all components rose in November. Continuing strength in financial indicators is now joined by gains in manufacturing and consumer expectations, but housing remains weak.”

Conference Board economist Ken Goldstein said that the indicators point to a mild pickup after a slow winter.