The latest Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) from s&p global shows that while the manufacturing sector in the USA remained in contraction in the beginning of the last quarter, there are signs of easing decline. The seasonally adjusted USA manufacturing PMI for October was 48.5, higher than the initial value of 47.8 and September's 47.3, but has been below the 50 mark for the fourth consecutive month. The latest data shows a slight deterioration in business conditions, although at the lowest level since July.

The uncertainty before the presidential election is considered the main reason for the continued decline in new orders, but the rate of decline has slowed, with output shrinking to the smallest extent in three months. However, manufacturers continue to reduce employment and procurement activities.

Inflationary pressures have weakened, with input cost growth at its slowest pace in nearly a year, and output price inflation has also eased. At the same time, due to hurricane-related disruptions being widespread, suppliers' delivery times have extended for the first time in three months.