Business Fixed Investment (Quarterly Change) vs Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change)
Business Fixed Investment (Quarterly Change) is currently 3.8% (down -0.9%). Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) is currently -0.3% (down -1.0%).
| Metric | Business Fixed Investment (Quarterly Change) | Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) |
|---|---|---|
| Current value | 3.8% | -0.3% |
| Previous reading | 4.7% | 0.7% |
| Change | -0.9% | -1.0% |
| Trend | down | down |
| Frequency | Quarterly | Monthly |
| Source | Bureau of Economic Analysis | Federal Reserve |
| Last updated | 2026-03-27 | 2026-03-18 |
| Category | growth | growth |
What Business Fixed Investment (Quarterly Change) measures
Business fixed investment measures spending by businesses on structures (factories, offices), equipment, and intellectual property products (software, R&D). It reflects corporate confidence in future demand and is a key component of GDP.
Business investment grew at 3.8% annualized — positive but decelerating from 4.7% last quarter. AI-related capital expenditure (data centers, chips, software) is a bright spot, while traditional equipment investment is more muted. For executives, sustained investment growth signals corporate confidence, but the deceleration suggests some companies are becoming more cautious amid tariff uncertainty and tight financial conditions.
What Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) measures
The Industrial Production Index measures the real output of manufacturing, mining, and electric and gas utilities. It is a coincident indicator that moves with the business cycle and reflects the goods-producing sector of the economy.
Industrial production fell 0.3% in March after strong February gains. Manufacturing, which accounts for about 75% of the index, has been volatile as companies adjust inventory levels. For executives in manufacturing and industrial sectors, the mixed readings suggest uneven demand rather than a clear downturn. The services sector remains the primary driver of U.S. economic growth.
Frequently asked
Business Fixed Investment (Quarterly Change) is currently 3.8%, down -0.9% from the previous reading. Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, updated quarterly.
Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) is currently -0.3%, down -1.0% from the previous reading. Source: Federal Reserve, updated monthly.
Business investment grew at 3.8% annualized — positive but decelerating from 4.7% last quarter. AI-related capital expenditure (data centers, chips, software) is a bright spot, while traditional equip Industrial production fell 0.3% in March after strong February gains. Manufacturing, which accounts for about 75% of the index, has been volatile as companies adjust inventory levels. For executives i