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US leading index rises sharply in March

April 21, 2014

The U.S. leading economic index rose in March for the third consecutive month, The Conference Board reported today. The index rose 0.8 percent in March to a reading of 100.9 (2004 = 100), following a 0.5 percent increase in February and a 0.2 percent increase in January.

“The March increase in the LEI suggests accelerated growth for the remainder of the spring and the summer,” said Ken Goldstein, economist at The Conference Board. “The economy is rebounding from widespread inclement weather and the strengthening in the labor market is beginning to have a positive impact on growth. Overall, this is an optimistic report, but the focus will continue to be on whether improvements in the labor market can be sustained, fueling stronger economic performance over the next few months.”