‘We believe we are in a stagflation period:’ U.S. manufacturers stuck in slump that shows no sign of ending
1. U.S. industrial economy contracted for seventh consecutive month in September. 2. The ISM manufacturing index remains below 50%, signaling ongoing contraction. 3. Higher tariffs and rising prices are leading to decreased consumer demand. 4. Manufacturers are reducing production and employment to manage costs. 5. DJIA and S&P 500 fell slightly but remain near all-time highs.