U.S. Manufacturing Activity Hit A Four-Year High in May, But There's a Caveat

The S&P Global flash U.S. manufacturing purchasing managers' index climbed to 55.3 in May from 54.5 in April, marking the strongest reading since May 2022. (Credit: Scott Olson/Getty Images)

U.S. manufacturing activity rose to its highest level in four years in May amid rising costs, supply disruptions and uncertainty tied to the war with Iran, according to new data.

The S&P Global flash U.S. manufacturing purchasing managers' index climbed to 55.3 in May from 54.5 in April, marking the strongest reading since May 2022. A reading above 50 indicates expansion.