U.S. manufacturers show signs of recovery from 2-year slump. But they still face headwinds. - MarketWatch

1. Durable goods orders fell 2.2%, mainly due to a drop in Boeing's orders. 2. Core orders rose 0.5% in December, but annual growth is slowing. 3. Manufacturers anticipate improvements in 2025 with hopes for lower taxes. 4. High interest rates and potential tariffs pose ongoing challenges. 5. There's optimism in the market despite recent struggles in business investment.