Current Physical Plant Capital Expenditures; Diffusion Index for Federal Reserve District 3: Philadelphia
This dataset tracks current physical plant capital expenditures; diffusion index for federal reserve district 3: philadelphia over time.
Latest Value
2.60
Year-over-Year Change
-65.33%
Date Range
3/1/2011 - 7/1/2025
Summary
The Current Physical Plant Capital Expenditures Diffusion Index for Federal Reserve District 3: Philadelphia measures the breadth of capital investment activity across businesses in the Philadelphia region. It provides insights into the overall investment climate and economic conditions.
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 tracks the percentage of businesses in the Philadelphia Federal Reserve District reporting increases in capital expenditures for physical plant and equipment. It is a leading indicator of broader investment trends and helps economists assess the regional economic outlook.
Methodology
The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia collects survey data from regional businesses to calculate this diffusion index.
Historical Context
The index is used by policymakers, analysts, and businesses to gauge the strength of investment and broader economic conditions in the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
Key Facts
- The index ranges from 0 to 100, with 50 indicating an equal split between increases and decreases.
- A reading above 50 signals more businesses are increasing capital spending than decreasing it.
- The index is released monthly by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Current Physical Plant Capital Expenditures Diffusion Index for Federal Reserve District 3: Philadelphia measures the net percentage of businesses in the Philadelphia region reporting increases in capital expenditures for physical plant and equipment.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This index provides valuable insights into investment activity and the broader economic climate in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. It is a leading indicator that helps economists and policymakers assess regional economic conditions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia collects survey data from regional businesses to calculate this diffusion index.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers, analysts, and businesses use this index to gauge the strength of investment and broader economic conditions in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, which informs decision-making and policy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The index is released monthly by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia with no significant update delays.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Current Physical Plant Capital Expenditures; Diffusion Index for Federal Reserve District 3: Philadelphia (CPBNDIF066MSFRBPHI), retrieved from FRED.