The Conference Board Leading Economic Index For The U.S. Increases

January 23, 2014

The Conference Board Leading Economic Index for the U.S. increased 0.1 percent in December to 99.4, following a 1.0 percent increase in November, and a 0.1 percent increase in October.

"Despite month-to-month volatility in the final quarter of 2013, the U.S. LEI continues to point to gradually strengthening economic conditions through early 2014," said Ataman Ozyildirim, Economist at The Conference Board.  "The LEI was lifted by its financial components in December, but consumer expectations for business conditions and residential construction continue to pose risks."

"This latest report suggests steady growth this spring, but some uncertainties remain," said Ken Goldstein, Economist at The Conference Board.  "Business caution and concern about unresolved federal budget battles persist, but the better-than-expected holiday season might point to sustained stronger demand and could put the U.S. on a faster growth track for 2014."

The Conference Board Coincident Economic Index for the U.S. increased 0.2 percent in December to 108.1, following a 0.4 percent increase in November, and a 0.1 prcent increase in October.

The Conference Board Lagging Economic Index for the U.S. increased 0.3 percent in December to 121.2, following no change in November, and a 0.3 percent rise in October.

Source: The Conference Board