Manufacturing activity in the region declined overall, according to the firms responding to the September Manufacturing Business Outlook Survey. The survey’s indicators for general activity, new orders, and shipments returned to negative territory after turning positive in August. On balance, the firms continued to report a decline in employment. The price indexes remained near long-run averages. Most future activity indicators improved, suggesting more widespread expectations for overall growth over the next six months. The diffusion index for current general activity returned to negative territory, falling from ... (full story)