Factory activity in Texas remained negative in July 2015, according to the Texas Manufacturing Outlook Survey, but rose for a second month in a row to -1.9. This number suggests further moderation in the decline of manufacturing output in the state.
A similar pattern was seen among other measures of current manufacturing activity in July. The capacity utilization index edged up to -4.2, and the shipments index increased to -4.3. These negative index levels indicate contraction, but the upward movement again this month suggests the pace of decline continued to slow. The new orders index rebounded strongly in July and posted a reading of 0.7 after six months in negative territory. The growth rate of orders index jumped 11 points from-16.5 to -5.2.
Perceptions of broader business conditions were mixed. The general business activity index remained negative, but it rose for a second month in a row and reached -4.6 in July. Manufacturers expect improved conditions ahead. The company outlook index surged nearly nine points and posted its first positive reading in seven months, coming in at 1.2.