From Marketwatch:
Manufacturing activity in the Chicago region slipped a bit in June but remained at relatively high levels, according to media reports of the purchasing managers' index for the Chicago region released on Wednesday. The Chicago purchasing managers index fell to 59.1% from 59.7% in May. The drop is in line with forecasts. The report signals continued solid growth in the manufacturing sector. Readings over 50% indicate overall business expansion. The Chicago PMI is the last of a series of regional indicators that some economists say give clues to the national Institute for Supply Management manufacturers' survey for June to be released on Thursday. Based on other regional readings, economists expect the June ISM manufacturing composite to slow a bit to 59.0 from a May reading of 59.7
Let's take a look at some of the data:
Click for a larger image
Notice that the overall index, production and new orders index have been printing strong numbers for the last six months. This indicates that Chicago area manufacturing is doing well, as a reading above 50 indicates expansion.
