The Electroindustry Business Confidence Index (EBCI) for current North American conditions fell 5.7 points in December to 48.2. The index failed to top the critical 50-point threshold for the first time since July, indicating modest deterioration in the business environment following a period of steady, if slow, growth over the last several months.

By contrast, EBCI for future North American conditions rebounded in December following declines in each of the two previous months. At 64.3, the index posted its tenth straight reading above 50, with a 6.3 point gain relative to November suggesting the degree of anticipated improvement in conditions over the next half year increased in the latest month.

Click below for the complete December 2009 report.

http://www.nema.org/econ/ebci/index.cfm

The Electroindustry Business Confidence Index gauges the business confidence of the electroindustry in Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America, and is based on the results of a monthly survey of senior managers at NEMA member companies. Those companies represent more than 80 percent of the electroindustry.

NEMA is the association of electrical and medical imaging equipment manufacturers. Founded in 1926 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., its approximately 450 member companies manufacture products used in the generation, transmission and distribution, control, and end use of electricity. These products are used in utility, industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential applications. The association’s Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) Division represents manufacturers of cutting-edge medical diagnostic imaging equipment including MRI, CT, x-ray, and ultrasound products. Worldwide sales of NEMA-scope products exceed $120 billion. In addition to its headquarters in Rosslyn, Virginia, NEMA also has offices in Beijing and Mexico City.