ISM Manufacturing Index Rises in September

U.S. manufacturing activity’s rate of expansion rose in September, the Institute for Supply Management reported Oct. 1.

ISM’s monthly factory index increased to a 56.2 reading from 55.7 in August, the group said in its monthly report.

Figures of more than 50 indicate expansion, while figures below that level show contraction.

The index topped economists’ median forecast of a 55 reading, Bloomberg News reported.

ISM’s factory index measures manufacturing components of the economy.

A separate Commerce Department report on August’s construction spending was not released Oct. 1 due to the federal government shutdown.