The latest data showed a mixed picture, with wholesale inventories down slightly and retail inventories up, while the trade deficit grew.
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The monthly decrease more than offset the increase seen in October, driven by a decline in transportation equipment.
The latest PMA business report shows that metalforming manufacturers remain upbeat toward growth coming into 2025.
GDP accelerated from 2Q, showing increases in consumer spending, exports, federal government spending and nonresidential fixed investment.
Members expect greater growth in 2025, driven by factors like election outcomes, branch expansion and increased consumer activity.
Manufacturing respondents anticipate annual revenues to significantly increase from a relatively flat 2024.
Along with the cut, the central bank issued its projections through 2027 for the interest rate, inflation, GDP growth, unemployment and more.
November marked the third consecutive monthly decline, as output in every category of nondurable consumer goods fell.
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U.S. wholesale inflation increase 3% year-over-year, the largest advance since February 2023.
The report showed a slight dip in October from the same period a year prior, as industry leaders anticipate a gradual recovery in 2025.
November’s increase was slightly above each of the previous four months.
Despite orders decreasing month-to-month, October 2024 was 3% above the average value of all Octobers.
The report showed a slight dip in October sales compared to September, with total sales down 0.1%, but an increase of 0.9% year-over-year.
HARDI members reported an 11% increase in sales with expectations of continued growth if inflation and mortgage rates ease.
Most distributors are optimistic about 2025 and are adapting their pricing strategies accordingly. Here are the factors they are considering.
The latest major industry disruption appears to be in the form of significant tariffs levied by the incoming Trump administration. Here's a look at the factors likely to be at play and how to navigate them.
The October increase followed decreases in September and August.
Government data showed a third straight monthly increase in October, and accelerated from the previous two.
While still in contraction territory overall, the November report showed a healthy increase in new orders and employment.
