S.E. Michigan Purchasing Managers Index indicates concerns over global events

The Southeast Michigan Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) declined slightly from October to November, from 58.4 to 57.1. The PMI’s 3-month average was relatively unchanged at 57.7. A PMI value above 50 generally suggests an expanding economy.

While the regional economy remains strong, current events in Europe and elsewhere have some respondents concerned about future stability.

"In light of a variety of global issues, such as the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis and the recent terror attacks in Paris, some respondents are definitely taking more of a ‘wait-and-see’ approach," said Nitin Paranjpe, the global supply chain management faculty member at Wayne State University’s Mike Ilitch School of Business who interpreted this month’s results.

Nearly 28 percent of survey respondents expect the economy to be less stable over the next six months, up sharply from about 7 percent in October.

"Events that cause unrest anywhere in the world can quickly affect the supply chain and the economy here at home," said Kenneth Doherty, assistant vice president of procurement and strategic sourcing at WSU and an Institute for Supply Management board member.

The Southeast Michigan Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) is a research partnership between Wayne State University’s Mike Ilitch School of Business and the Institute for Supply Management - Southeast Michigan.

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