By Jessica Coacci
Business activity in the Chicago area slipped into contraction territory this month as the conflict in the Middle East lifts energy costs for firms, a monthly survey showed Thursday.
The Chicago Business Barometer, compiled by MNI Indicators, fell to 49.2 in April after three months of expansion from 52.8 in March. Economists polled by The Wall Street Journal had expected a reading of 53.5. A measurement above 50 indicates an expansion in activity.
The fall was driven by declines in order backlogs, new orders, supplier deliveries and production. The employment increase provided some offset, the survey said.
The prices paid index increased to the highest level since June. Respondents cited oil, metals and transportation fuel surcharges as key drivers.
The survey ran from April 1 to April 14.
Write to Jessica Coacci at jessica.coacci@wsj.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
04-30-26 1023ET
