Architecture Billings Index Recovers in October

Wells Fargo Research Team Wells Fargo

The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) rose 2.6 points to 51.7 in October. This marks the eighth reading above 50 in the last nine months, following a dip below this threshold in September.

Recovery in the West, Decline in the South

The West and Midwest regions reported ABI scores below 50, meaning less than half of firms reported increased billings. The index for the West, however, rose one point to 49.8 and so is improving after slipping below 50 last month.
The South reported the largest decline in October, with its ABI score falling 3.2 points to 50.8. This may reflect hurricanerelated disruptions in building activity.

All Sectors Decline on Three-Month Average Basis

The commercial/industrial, institutional, residential and mixed ABIs all declined on the month. Regional and sector indices are reported on a 3-month moving average basis, so the declines reflect trend weakening even if the headline ABI rose in October.
The ABI for each sector remained above 50, indicating most firms are still seeing increased billings. October's results are consistent with some moderation in construction spending growth.

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Wells Fargo Research Team

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