FX.co ★ Chicago PMI Cools in March, Pointing to Slower Midwest Activity

The Chicago Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for the United States eased notably in March 2026, signaling a cooling in Midwest business activity. The index fell to 52.8 in March from 57.7 in February 2026, according to data updated on 31 March 2026.

While the March reading remains above the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction, the decline suggests a slower pace of growth compared with February. The pullback may indicate that manufacturers and service providers in the Chicago region are becoming more cautious after a stronger start to the year.

Investors and analysts will be watching upcoming regional and national PMI releases to gauge whether the Chicago slowdown is an isolated adjustment or an early sign of broader softening in U.S. economic momentum as the second quarter approaches.