Bloomberg Businessweek (11/01/13) Michelle Jamrisko
The Institute for Supply Management’s index rose to 56.4 in October—the highest since April 2011—from 56.2 in September. A survey of economists by Bloomberg had expected the ISM index to decline to 55. Readings above 50 indicate expansion. Motor vehicle purchases and improved exports contributed to the rise. The government shutdown is unlikely to affect manufacturing activity.