ISM Services Expands in December

ISM reports what respondents are saying:

• "Year-end uptick in activity." (Finance & Insurance)
• "Business is stabilizing — some good signs in the private sector for commercial construction." (Construction)
• "Some additional proposal requests, but clients continue to delay decisions on capital spending. Expect first quarter 2012 activity to be sluggish." (Professional, Scientific & Technical Services)
• "Automotive industry growth seems to be outpacing the rest of the economy." (Information)
• "Demand increasing gradually." (Wholesale Trade)
• "Business is holding steady. Outlook for December and first quarter 2012 is good." (Retail Trade)

Source: ISM