by Calculated Risk on 5/27/2020 10:06:00 AM

From the Richmond Fed: Fifth District manufacturing remained soft in May

Fifth District manufacturing remained soft in May, according to the most recent survey from the Richmond Fed. The composite index rose from a record low of −53 in April to −27 in May, remaining at its lowest level since 2009. All three components — shipments, new orders and employment — were above their April readings but still in contractionary territory. The index for local business conditions was also negative, but contacts expected conditions to improve in the next six months.

Many survey participants reported decreases in employment and the average workweek in May. However, the indexes for wages and the availability of workers with the necessary skills were both close to 0.
emphasis added

The last of the regional Fed surveys for May will be released tomorrow (Kansas City Fed).