US DATA: Aug mfg ISM text: “The PMI registered 49.6 percent, a
decrease of 0.2 percentage point from July’s reading of 49.8 percent,
indicating contraction in the manufacturing sector for the third
consecutive month. This is also the lowest reading for the PMI since
July 2009. The New Orders Index registered 47.1 percent, a decrease of
0.9 percentage point from July, indicating contraction in new orders for
the third consecutive month. The Production Index registered 47.2
percent, a decrease of 4.1 percentage points and indicating contraction
in production for the first time since May 2009. The Employment Index
remained in growth territory at 51.6 percent, but registered its lowest
reading since November 2009 when the Employment Index registered 51
percent. The Prices Index increased 14.5 percentage points from its July
reading to 54 percent. Comments from the panel generally reflect a
slowdown in orders and demand, with continuing concern over the
uncertain state of global economies.”