AI Data Insight
The latest monthly growth rate for new US durable goods orders in Q1 dropped to -1.4%, underperforming the previous reading of 0.0% and falling below market consensus. Although AI demand drove a slight increase in orders for computers and electronic products, high vehicle prices and geopolitical tensions pushing up oil prices have put significant pressure on spending for transportation equipment and capital goods, challenging the momentum of the manufacturing recovery in the short term.