Chicago Fed National Activity Index: Diffusion Index
CFNAIDIFF • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-0.37
Year-over-Year Change
117.65%
Date Range
5/1/1967 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Chicago Fed National Activity Index Diffusion Index tracks the breadth of economic activity across multiple sectors and indicators. It provides a comprehensive view of overall economic momentum by measuring how widespread economic growth or contraction is across different economic dimensions.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
This diffusion index represents the percentage of indicators showing positive or negative movement in the Chicago Fed National Activity Index. Economists use it to assess the synchronization and distribution of economic signals across various economic sectors and components.
Methodology
The index is calculated by determining the proportion of individual economic indicators showing positive or negative movement relative to their historical trends.
Historical Context
Policymakers and investors use this diffusion index to understand the broader economic landscape and potential turning points in economic cycles.
Key Facts
- Measures the breadth of economic activity across multiple sectors
- Provides insight into economic momentum and synchronization
- Helps identify potential economic turning points
FAQs
Q: What does a high diffusion index value indicate?
A: A high diffusion index value suggests widespread positive economic activity across multiple sectors and indicators.
Q: How frequently is this index updated?
A: The Chicago Fed National Activity Index is typically updated monthly with the most recent economic data.
Q: What sectors are included in the calculation?
A: The index incorporates indicators from production, employment, income, personal consumption, and housing sectors.
Q: How do economists use this diffusion index?
A: Economists use this index to assess overall economic health, potential recession risks, and the synchronization of economic signals.
Q: What are the limitations of this index?
A: The diffusion index provides a broad overview and should be used in conjunction with other economic indicators for comprehensive analysis.
Related Trends
Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Furniture and Related Products: Other Short-Term Financial Investments
QFRD210337USNO
Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Other Information: Short-Term Debt, Original Maturity of 1 Year or Less: Loans from Banks
QFR301519USNO
Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Fabricated Metal Products: Net Working Capital
QFRNWC332USNO
Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Apparel and Leather Products: Net Sales, Receipts, and Operating Revenues
QFR101ANLUSNO
Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: Nonmetallic Mineral Products: Net Property, Plant, and Equipment
QFR219327USNO
Quarterly Financial Report: U.S. Corporations: All Information: Property, Plant, and Equipment
QFR216INFUSNO
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Chicago Fed National Activity Index: Diffusion Index [CFNAIDIFF], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025