Economic activity in the US nonmanufacturing sector increased in October and at a faster pace than September. The Institute for Supply Management’s nonmanufacturing composite index rose to a reading of 59.1 from September’s reading of 56.9.

A reading above 50 indicates expansion in the sector.

The employment portion of the index rose to a reading of 59.2 in October from September’s reading of 58.3 and indicates growth for the 20th consecutive month.