The US manufacturing sector expanded again in June, with operating conditions improving to the greatest degree in over three years. Output increased for the first time since February, and to a solid degree, whilst new orders increased for a sixth successive month due to improved domestic and international demand. However, tariffs remained a prevalent theme, notably affecting purchasing decisions and prices. Latest data showed manufacturers raising their input buying activity to the greatest extent since April 2022, at times reflective of efforts to build up inventories given ongoing trade and price uncertainty. ... (full story)