2026.05.2612:30:00UTC+00US Activity Gauge Turns Positive as Chicago Fed Index Rises in April

The Chicago Fed National Activity Index (CFNAI) for the United States moved back into positive territory in April 2026, signaling a pickup in overall economic momentum. The index rose to 0.14 in April from -0.15 in March 2026, according to data updated on 26 May 2026.

The shift from negative to positive suggests that U.S. economic activity grew slightly above its historical trend in April. The CFNAI, a composite measure based on a broad range of economic indicators, is closely watched for early signs of turning points in growth. While a single monthly reading does not establish a firm trend, the April improvement points to a modest strengthening in the underlying pace of the economy following March’s softer performance.