Institute for Supply Management [ISM] Manufacturing Index

The ISM surveys 400+ companies purchasing manager’s throughout the US.  The managers surveyed give their current opinion of their business outlook.  The results are diffused, comparing their previous answers with their current outlook.  When the index is at 50%, no change would be signaled.  Below 50% would show weakness and above strength.  The ISM is usually one of the first reports in the month and can set the tone for following reports.  The purchasing managers rating of the prices they are paying during the month gives a glimpse into the manufacturing sectors level of inflation.  The ISM is an ELEVATED mortgage market mover.  The Institute for Supply Management releases the survey results on the first of the month at 10:00 [eastern].