• Economic Report Descriptions
• Week 1
• Week 2
• Week 3
• Week 4

Week 1

Note: All times are noted Eastern Time. These times are subject to change. Please check current listings for exact announcement times.

ISM Index

• When it’s released: 10 a.m.
• Why it’s important: The Institute for Supply Management surveys approximately 400 manufacturers. Information results in a composite report detailing production, new orders, inventories, supplier delivers and employment. A reading above 50% indicates an expanding factory sector. A reading below 50% indicates contracting conditions. The FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) watches this significant report for signs of inflation.

Employment Situation

• When it’s released: 8:30 a.m.
• Why it’s important: The “employment numbers” are an important set of labor-related statistics that include--but are not limited to--the unemployment rate (measures unemployed as a percentage of the labor force), nonfarm payroll employment (the number of part-time and full-time employees in U.S. business and government establishments), and average hourly earnings. The unemployment report relays important information as to the state of our economy and the future outlook. The FOMC watches this report, intently. So should you!

View Week 2