Architecture Billings Index Advances in August

Wells Fargo Research Team Wells Fargo

The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) rose 1.8 points to 53.7 in August. This marks seven consecutive months the ABI has been above 50, which indicates growing demand for design services.

All Regions Reported Gains

All four regions reported ABI scores above 50, meaning more than half the firms reported increased billings. The ABI rose in all regions except the Midwest, and is above the year ago level, indicating gains in building activity are broadening.
The South registered the largest increase from the prior month and highest overall score, reflecting the region’s stronger overall growth and more robust population growth.

Strength in Commercial and Industrial

The commercial and industrial sector ABI rose 2.2 points to 57.6, its strongest reading since 2007. The mixed practice series rebounded 4 points to 52.5.
The ABI for residential and institutional projects fell for a second straight month. Both series remain above 50, indicating more firms are seeing billings rise than fall. The moderation reflects tighter lending standards and leaner public sector budgets

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Wells Fargo Research Team

Wells Fargo

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