By Jeffry Bartash
ISM services index falls to five-month low of 51.8%
The numbers: An ISM barometer of U.S. business conditions at service-oriented companies such as retailers and restaurants slowed to a five-month low of 51.8% in October, suggesting the economy has weakened.
The figure was below the forecast of 53.0% of economists surveyed by the Wall Street Journal.
The index recorded 53.6% in September
Figures above 50% are considered positive for the economy. The index fluctuated between 50% and 55% throughout the year.
“The services sector continues to slow,” said Anthony Nieves, chairman of the survey.
-Jeffry Bartash
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03/23/11 1007ET
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