The Chicago Federal Reserve Bank today reported that its Midwest Manufacturing Index rose from 89 in December 2011 to 90.1 in January of 2012. The index posted a low of 68.3 in June of 2009 and has been rising steadily, if slowly since then.
The bank also revised the December figure upwards, from a gain of 1.7% to 2.2%. The gain in auto manufacturing in January totaled 4.1%, higher than the 3.3% gain posted in December. In the 12 months to January 2012, automobile manufacturing was up 17.5%.
The Midwest remains America’s industrial heartland, and manufacturing in the region has outperformed all other sections of the country over the past 12 months. For the preceding 12 months, Midwest manufacturing has grown by 9.1%, nearly double the national average of 4.7%.
Sponsored: Want to Retire Early? Here’s a Great First Step
Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances?
Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free.
Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Editors' Picks
