U.S. Economic News
March 15, 2021
U.S. Economic Indicators
The Empire State Manufacturing Survey indicates that business activity expanded in March as the headline index rose 5.0 points to 17.4. The new orders index decreased 1.7 points to 9.1, the index for number of employees decreased 2.7 points to 9.4, and the shipments index spiked 17 points to 21.1. NY Fed Report
U.S. News
The Wall Street Journal reports that a surge in demand by U.S. consumers could exacerbate supply-chain disruptions, driving up shipping times and costs. As successful vaccination campaigns, accumulated savings, and the recently passed $1.9 trillion relief bill lead to spikes in spending, businesses around the world may see even more acute shortages – especially for components like semiconductors – and strained capacity. WSJ