FX.co ★ KC Fed Manufacturing Index Hits 3-1/2-Year High

The Kansas City Federal Reserve's Manufacturing Production Index experienced a significant increase in October 2025, reaching 15 from 4 in September, marking the highest level since April 2022. This indicates a substantial expansion in manufacturing activities. Both the durable and nondurable sectors posted slight improvements. Nondurable growth was bolstered by advancements in printing and paper sectors, while the durable sector saw gains supported by increased metal manufacturing. Compared to the previous month, most indexes reflected positive trends, although new export orders and the average workweek declined. Production and shipments showed moderate growth. In terms of pricing trends, there was a slight uptick in the price growth for both finished products and raw materials from the previous month. On a year-over-year basis, most indexes were negative, with the exceptions being supplier delivery times and capital expenditures. The indexes for production and employment remained in negative numbers.