ISM Manufacturing Index Rises

U.S. manufacturing activity rose in September, showing continued expansion for the 26th consecutive month, the Institute for Supply Management said Monday.

ISM’s monthly factory index increased to a reading of 51.6, from a 50.6 reading in August, the group said. Figures over 50 indicate expansion.

The reading was higher than economists’ projections of a drop to 50.5, Bloomberg reported.

Twelve of 18 manufacturing sectors showed expansion for the month, ISM said.

ISM’s factory index measures manufacturing components of the economy.