US factory orders drop 1.3% in May as durable goods orders fall 4.5%

Boeing aircraft demand weighed on durable goods and overall factory orders, while firm core capital goods spending suggested business investment remained resilient and may shape Federal Reserve rate expectations.

Summary

US factory orders fell 1.3% in May, while durable goods orders dropped 4.5%, with weaker aircraft demand at Boeing and transportation-sector softness driving much of the decline. Despite the headline drop, robust core capital goods spending indicated underlying business investment remained on solid footing. The mixed report may influence expectations for how the Federal Reserve assesses interest rate policy if broader economic signals continue to soften.

Terms & Concepts
  • factory orders: A measure of new orders placed with U.S. manufacturers for durable and nondurable goods.
  • durable goods orders: New orders for manufactured items meant to last at least several years.
  • core capital goods spending: A measure of business investment that excludes aircraft and defense.