Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) vs Real GDP Growth Rate
Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) is currently -0.3% (down -1.0%). Real GDP Growth Rate is currently 2.4% (down -0.7%).
| Metric | Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) | Real GDP Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Current value | -0.3% | 2.4% |
| Previous reading | 0.7% | 3.1% |
| Change | -1.0% | -0.7% |
| Trend | down | down |
| Frequency | Monthly | Quarterly |
| Source | Federal Reserve | Bureau of Economic Analysis |
| Last updated | 2026-03-18 | 2026-03-27 |
| Category | growth | growth |
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.
What Real GDP Growth Rate measures
Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the inflation-adjusted value of all goods and services produced in the United States. The growth rate shows how fast the economy is expanding or contracting on an annualized quarterly basis.
GDP growth is the single most important measure of economic health. A rate above 2% signals healthy expansion; below 1% raises recession concerns. For executives, GDP growth directly affects consumer demand, business investment, and hiring plans. The current 2.4% growth rate represents moderate expansion — strong enough to sustain corporate earnings but below the 3%+ pace that typically drives aggressive hiring.
Frequently asked
Industrial Production Index (Monthly Change) is currently -0.3%, down -1.0% from the previous reading. Source: Federal Reserve, updated monthly.
Real GDP Growth Rate is currently 2.4%, down -0.7% from the previous reading. Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, updated quarterly.
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 GDP growth is the single most important measure of economic health. A rate above 2% signals healthy expansion; below 1% raises recession concerns. For executives, GDP growth directly affects consumer