US Durable Goods Orders increased by $2.6 billion, or 0.8%, in March to reach $318.9 billion, according to the US Census Bureau's report released on Wednesday [1]. This rise follows a 1.2% contraction in February and exceeds the market expectation of a 0.5% increase [1]. Excluding transportation, new orders rose by 0.9%, while excluding defense, new orders decreased by 0.3% [1]. The computers and electronic products category led the gains, rising $1.0 billion or 3.7% to $29.6 billion, marking an increase in eleven of the last twelve months [1].
Despite the stronger-than-expected data, the market reaction was muted. The US Dollar Index was up only 0.1% on the day at 98.70 at the time of reporting, indicating limited immediate impact on currency markets [1].
No forward-looking statements or analyst opinions were provided in the source article [1].
CONCLUSION
US Durable Goods Orders outperformed expectations in March, driven by gains in computers and electronic products. However, the market response was minimal, with the US Dollar Index showing only a slight uptick. No analyst commentary or forward guidance was included in the report.