US DATA: Oct mfg ISM text: “The PMI registered 50.8 percent, a
decrease of 0.8 percentage point from September’s reading of 51.6
percent, indicating expansion in the manufacturing sector for the 27th
consecutive month. The New Orders Index increased 2.8 percentage points
from September to 52.4 percent, indicating a return to growth after
three months of contraction. The Prices Index, at 41 percent, dropped 15
percentage points, and is below the 50 percent mark for the first time
since May 2009 when it registered 43.5 percent. Inventories decreased to
46.7 percent, which is 5.3 percentage points below the September reading
of 52 percent. Comments from respondents are mixed, indicating positive
relief from raw materials pricing and continuing strength in a few
industries, but there is also more concern and caution about growth in
this uncertain economy.” 8 of 18 industries grew.