Business activity grew modestly in New York State, according to The index for number of employees was little changed at 12.1, indicating ongoing modest gains in employment, and the average workweek index edged up to 9.0, signaling an increase in hours worked. firms responding to the February 2021 Empire State Manufacturing Survey. The headline general business conditions index climbed nine points to 12.1, its highest level in several months. New orders increased, and shipments edged higher. Delivery times lengthened, and inventories grew. Employment levels and the average workweek both increased. Input prices rose at the fastest clip in nearly a decade, and selling prices increased significantly. Looking ahead, firms remained optimistic that conditions would improve over the next six months, and capital spending plans expanded noticeably
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The general business conditions index rose nine points to 12.1, its highest level since July of last year. … The index for number of employees was little changed at 12.1, indicating ongoing modest gains in employment, and the average workweek index edged up to 9.0, signaling an increase in hours worked.
emphasis added
This was above expectations, and showed activity “grew modestly” in December.