EBCI Neutral in April After March Surge

NEMA’s Electroindustry Business Conditions Index (EBCI) continued its recent volatility, dropping to a neutral 50 points in April after surging to 64.7 in March from 44.4 in February. The EBCI for future North American conditions also deteriorated in April but remained in growth territory, dropping to 53.1 from 61.8 in March.

The EBCI is based on a monthly survey of members of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), Rosslyn, Va.

According to Dodge Data & Analytics, during the first three months of 2016 total construction starts on an unadjusted basis were $141.7 billion, down 10% from the same period a year ago that included the start of several big power plants and liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminals.