DOW JONES–The situation for US industry in the Philadelphia region brightened slightly in February, contrary to expectations. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s economic index rose to plus 16.3 points from plus 12.6 in the previous month. Economists surveyed by Dow Jones Newswires had expected a decline to plus 10.0.
If the Philly Fed index is above zero, it is assumed that the economy is developing positively. However, if the index falls below zero, an economic downturn in the manufacturing sector is expected.
The Philly Fed Index tracks industry in the key Northeast region and is considered one of the most important leading indicators of U.S. manufacturing.
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(END) Dow Jones Newswires
February 19, 2026 08:40 ET (13:40 GMT)