U.S. Durable Goods Orders Slump Much More Than Expected In February

New orders for U.S. manufactured durable goods plunged in February, declining sharply and much more than expected, driven largely by a steep drop in aircraft orders. The unexpected slump points to softer manufacturing demand and is a downside risk for near-term GDP and aerospace suppliers; monitor upcoming revisions and detailed capital-goods components for fuller impact.

Analysis

New orders for U.S. manufactured durable goods plunged in February, declining sharply and much more than expected, driven largely by a steep drop in aircraft orders. The unexpected slump points to softer manufacturing demand and is a downside risk for near-term GDP and aerospace suppliers; monitor upcoming revisions and detailed capital-goods components for fuller impact.