ISM Manufacturing Index Slips in April

U.S. manufacturing activity slowed in April from March but showed continued positive activity, the Institute for Supply Management said Monday.

ISM’s monthly factory index declined to a reading of 60.4, from a 61.2 reading in March, the group said. Figures over 50 indicate expansion.

February’s 61.4 reading had been the highest since the index registered the same reading in May 2004, and had marked the index’s seventh straight month of growth.

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