By Jessica Coacci

U.S. leading economic indicators rose slightly in May, fueled by positive contributions from financial components, especially stock prices and the interest rate spread, according to a basket of monthly economic indicators.

The Leading Economic Index, or LEI, published by research group The Conference Board, ticked up by 0.1% to 99.3, following a 0.2% increase in April.

On the non-financial side of the LEI, only the ISM New Orders Index showed some strength, with consumer expectations remaining a major drag, said Justyna Zabinska-La Monica, a senior manager at The Conference Board.

Additionally, despite two consecutive monthly increases, the LEI's six- and 12-month growth rates were still negative, suggesting slower economic expansion ahead.

The LEI is meant as a predictive index. It is based on 10 components, among them manufacturers' new orders, building permits for new private housing units, stock prices and consumer expectations, and aims to signal shifts in the business cycle.

Write to Jessica Coacci at jessica.coacci@wsj.com


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

06-18-26 1035ET