April data indicated a faster rise in business activity at firms based in the US, according to the latest ‘flash’ PMI™ data from S&P Global. Output rose at the sharpest pace for almost a year, as stronger demand conditions, improving supply and a steeper uptick in new orders supported the expansion. Solid growth in activity was seen across both the manufacturing and service sectors. The headline S&P Global Flash US PMI Composite Output Index registered 53.5 in April, up from 52.3 in March, to signal the quickest upturn in business activity since May 2022. The increase in output was the third in as many months. ... (full story)

After mixed 'soft' regional survey data (Empire Fed spike, Philly Fed puke) and a general slide in the overall macro surprise index, expectations were for a decline in S&P Global's PMI data in preliminary April data. However, just to baffle everyone with bullshit, both manufacturing and services jumped higher in early April data with the forfmer back into expansion territory (somehow). • US Manufacturing at 11-month high - prints 50.4 (expansion) in flash April vs 49.2 prior, well ahead of the drop to 49.0 expected. • US Services at 6-month high - prints 53.7 (expansion) in flash April vs 52.6 prior, well ahead of ... (full story)