David Loesch

Menu

a

Business Pessimism Stagnates Corporate Planning

April 16, 2025

This week, the Federal Reserve Bank of NY released the findings of its April Empire State Manufacturing Index, a snapshot survey of the health of the manufacturing sector in NY.

As per the respondents, there was a modest decline in business activity, which was, however, a slight improvement from last month’s significant drop. The pace of input price and selling price increases accelerated to the highest level in over two years.

The firms surveyed expressed pessimism about the future business conditions index, which plummeted by 20 points. This marks the second lowest reading in the 20-year history of the survey, with the index dropping by 44 points in the last three months.

Capital spending plans were flat. However, selling prices are expected to pick up, and supply availability is anticipated to worsen in the next six months.

These survey results are a macrocosm of corporate America’s sentiment and stagnation as the US grapples with tariff uncertainties.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

More Articles

Bond Market Still Concerned About Inflation

The bond market sold off today, with fresh concerns about the outlook for inflation after the June CPI showed prices rose the most since the beginning of the year, and continued threats from President Trump to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.

30-year T approaches 5%

As Wall Street resumes operations post the July 4th holiday, the market is grappling with the implications of the President’s tariff commentary. The 30-year Treasury is edging towards 5% today, with the 10-year just below 4.5% as I write.

Where have all the long bonds gone?

Since the start of the year, both large U.S. corporations and small businesses have faced a highly uncertain financial landscape. With rising interest rates, imposing tariffs, and a volatile political environment, the level of uncertainty is unprecedented.