The US Leading Economic Indicators Index (LEI) came in higher than expected for October

The US Leading Economic Indicators Index (LEI) came in higher than expected for October. The Conference Board's index climbed from 0.7% in September to 0.9% last month. The median forecast was for 0.6%, so this was a fairly substantial beat. New orders are giving a boost to US manufacturing, while lower gas prices are improving consumer outlook. The Conference Board believes the positive trend in the LEI will result in economic growth continuing through the holiday season. That's certainly good news for retailers. The LEI includes 10 components including jobless claims, stock prices, ISM New Orders, building permits, and several other traditionally leading indicators. (VIEW LINK)