ISM manufacturing remains in contraction territory

ISM Manufacturing Analysis - The ISM manufacturing headline number for August is 48.7%, marking the sixth consecutive month below 50, indicating contraction [1] - Despite being in contraction territory, 48.7% is the best number since June [1] Prices Paid - The prices paid number is 63.7%, the smallest since February, suggesting easing inflationary pressures [2] New Orders - New orders stand at 51.4%, exceeding 50 and indicating expansion, reaching levels last seen in January [2] Employment - The employment component is 43.8%, reflecting weakness and comping to the weakest level since last month [3] - This marks the seventh consecutive month of employment component in contraction territory (under 50) [3] Construction Spending - July construction spending is reported at -0.1%, aligning with expectations [3] - This is the best number since April when it was positive at positive one-tenth of a percent [4]