by Calculated Risk on 6/19/2014 10:00:00 AM

From the Philly Fed: June Manufacturing Survey

The diffusion index of current general activity increased from a reading of 15.4 in May to 17.8 this month. The index has remained positive for four consecutive months and is at its highest reading since last September. The current new orders and shipments indexes also moved higher this month, increasing 6 points and 1 point, respectively.
...
Indicators also suggest improved labor market conditions this month. The employment index remained positive for the 12th consecutive month and increased 4 points. [to 11.9].
emphasis added

This was above the consensus forecast of a reading of 13.0 for June.

Click on graph for larger image.

Here is a graph comparing the regional Fed surveys and the ISM manufacturing index. The dashed green line is an average of the NY Fed (Empire State) and Philly Fed surveys through June. The ISM and total Fed surveys are through May.

The average of the Empire State and Philly Fed surveys is at the highest level since 2011, and this suggests stronger expansion in the ISM report for June.