AI Data Insight
The US ISM Manufacturing Employment Index recorded 51.2 in the third quarter of 2026, a decrease of 1.6 percentage points from the previous value of 52.8, but still remains in the expansion territory. Although overall manufacturing expansion momentum has slowed down due to a decline in new orders and missed expectations, the labor market remains resilient supported by reshoring of production and tech investments. However, continuing price hikes and geopolitical risks still add concerns for subsequent growth.