2026.04.3014:00:00UTC+00US Leading Index Turns Positive in February, Signaling Firmer Growth Momentum

The US Leading Index moved back into positive territory in February 2026, suggesting an improvement in forward-looking economic conditions. According to data updated on 30 April 2026, the index rose 0.3% month-over-month, compared with a 0.1% decline in January 2026.

On a month-over-month basis, February’s gain marks a clear shift from the slight contraction seen at the start of the year. The January reading of -0.1% had compared unfavorably to the previous month, but the latest 0.3% increase points to strengthening momentum as February outperformed the prior period. Investors and analysts tracking the series will see the move into positive territory as an encouraging sign for near-term US economic prospects.