The latest RBC PMI survey pointed to a renewed downturn in the manufacturing sector, though the overall deterioration in business conditions was only marginal. August data indicated a decline in output levels for the first time in four months, while payroll numbers decreased at the joint-fastest rate since the survey began in October 2010. Meanwhile, the weaker exchange rate contributed to a modest rise in new export work. However, manufacturers reported a marked increase in imported raw material costs, which contributed to the fastest rate of price inflation in just over a year and placed additional pressure on operating margins.

Consumer confidence toward the overall economy and technology spending dropped in August, according to the latest data released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®.

The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for Mexico declined 0.8 percent in June to 101.2 (2010 = 100), following a 0.6 percent decline in May, and no change in April.

North America PVC films market is expected to reach USD 2.99 billion by 2022, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The regional polyvinyl chloride films market is characterized by increasing regulatory & legislative intervention particularly in the U.S. and Canada for food packaging applications. Favorable regulatory environment in Mexico compared to the U.S. & Canada is expected to develop the regional industry over the forecast period.

Index Points to Moderate Strength in the Economy Through 2015

The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for Mexico was unchanged in April, remaining at 102.5 (2010 = 100), following a 1.3 percent increase in March, and a 0.3 percent decline in February.

Solid Growth Continues

The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for the U.S. increased 0.7 percent in April to 122.3 (2010 = 100), following a 0.4 percent increase in March, and a 0.2 percent decline in February.

The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for Mexico declined was unchanged in February at 101.2 (2010 = 100), following a 1.4 percent decrease in January, and a 3.4 percent decrease in December.

But Weaker Growth May be Ahead

"As Vice-Chairman of the President's Export Council, I welcome news that the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015 has been introduced in Congress.

- 95% expect to complete more deals than in the prior year

- Larger US companies focused on deals above $250M

- 92% focused on cross-border M&A in the next 12 months