The Business Roundtable released its survey of 150 CEOs, which climbed to its highest level since first quarter 2012.  Edging up to 96.8 reflects optimism about President Trump’s economic agenda, which is on the verge of its first significant legislative win.

Positives:

• Expected Sales to Increase: 122, +5.1 as 76% see higher sales and only 4% see lower sales
• Capital Expenditures: 91, +6.3% as 49% are planning to spend more while only 6% plan less

Negative:

• Employment over next 6 Months: 75.7, -4.5% as 43% plan on increased hiring, but 18% see decreases

ISM Non-Manufacturing

The headline number came in slightly lower than expected, although a pullback isn’t a surprise as the report is coming off the second best reading ever.

Industries reporting growth

• Retail Trade
• Wholesale Trade
• Utilities
• Transportation & Warehousing
• Real Estate, Rental & Leasing
• Educational Services
• Health Care & Social Assistance
• Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
• Public Administration
• Information
• Finance & Insurance
• Construction
• Management of Companies & Support Services
• Accommodation & Food Services
• Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

Industry reporting contraction

• Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting