Latest Industry Trends News
Fastest Rise in Global Export Orders in Over Four Years
The global manufacturing PMI New Export Orders Index hit its joint-highest since July 2021, signaling first expansion in nearly a year. Asia-Pacific led with quickest growth since mid-2010, while Europe eased declines and North America contracted. Services exports also grew marginally for the first time in three months.
Global Manufacturing PMI Hits Near Four-Year High
Headline global manufacturing PMI climbed to a near four-year high in February, driven by booming conditions in ASEAN and Europe. Output growth accelerated, with optimism at highest since mid-2024, though data predates Middle East conflict escalation. China led top trading economies with strongest export rise since 2020.
Global Chemical Production Up 0.3% in Early 2026
ACC's Global CPRI showed 0.3% growth in January, led by Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Europe; North America declined. Korea's output rose 4.0% with all segments expanding; year-over-year global rise was 3.4%. Chemical industry reported expansions in orders and production per ISM.
ISM Services PMI Rises to 56.1 for 20th Straight Month
ISM Services PMI gained 2.3 points to 56.1, with new orders, employment, and exports growing; inventories and backlogs improved. JP Morgan Global Manufacturing PMI hit 51.9, highest in over 3.5 years, with output and orders strengthening.
Global PMI Signals 3.0% Annualized GDP Growth in February
Global PMI output index reached one of highest since pandemic, indicating growth back to long-run trend before Middle East war. Surveys hit highest since May 2024; March PMIs awaited for war impact assessment. Eurozone and Germany industrial production reviving at four-year pace.
Manufacturing Industry Forecast: 2.9% Growth in 2026
Interact Analysis predicts 2.9% growth for manufacturing in 2026, up from 2.0% in 2025, with Asia leading. Longer-term average annual growth of 3.1% forecast from 2025-2030.
Oil Prices Surge Amid Middle East Conflict Escalation
Oil prices climbed sharply in February due to geopolitical tensions, rising 2.78% to bring YTD gain to 16.72%; surged above $70/barrel in early March post-US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Adds to inflation concerns alongside rising input prices.
Commodity Prices Climb Led by Precious Metals and Energy
S&P GSCI Index rose 2.13% in February, driven by gold, silver, and oil amid Middle East risks. Heightened uncertainty pushed investors to bonds and commodities.
US ISM Manufacturing PMI at 52.4 with Chemical Expansion
ISM Manufacturing PMI reached 52.4; chemical sector expanded in new orders, production, and exports despite cost pressures. Respondents note growth in data centers, health care, and food sectors.
Geopolitical Tensions Boost Energy Prices, Market Volatility
Escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict raised crude prices 22% in a week, impacting inflation expectations and sentiment. Underlying economy solid with 2-3% GDP growth; investors shift to mid/small-caps.
Global Manufacturing Input Prices Rise Fastest Since 2022
Input prices in manufacturing accelerated sharply in February per PMI data. Combined with export order strength, signals robust sector amid pre-war surveys.
US Stock Market Faces Volatility from Emerging Risks
2026 outlook warned of higher volatility than 2025 due to risks; February data supportive but employment softens. Opportunities eyed amid geopolitical and inflation pressures.