US Business Activity Slows, Marking Weakest Growth in Four Months

In April, US business activity experienced its slowest expansion of the year, triggered by a significant pullback in demand. This slowdown resulted in the first employment decline seen since 2020. The S&P Global flash composite index, which tracks output at manufacturers and service providers, fell 1.2 points to 50.9—the most substantial drop since August. While readings above 50 still denote expansion, the downturn is notable. Moreover, the composite measure of orders indicated the first contraction in six months, signaling potential challenges ahead for the US economy.