In January, NEMA’s Electroindustry Business Conditions Index (EBCI) for current conditions in North America slipped below the 50-point level typically associated with expansion for the first time since October 2012. The index declined for the third straight month, falling to 40.6 from 52.8 in December. In sharp contrast, confidence in future business conditions again gained ground in January. The EBCI for North American conditions six months from now rose to 90.6 from 83.3 in December, one of the highest readings in the history of the survey.
The EBCI Index, is a monthly survey of senior executives at electrical manufacturers published by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), Rosslyn, Va.