The Dallas FED’s general business activity index for Texas manufacturing fell to -2.3 in April 2026 from -0.2 in March, marking its lowest level so far this year. The company outlook index rebounded into positive territory at 3, while the outlook uncertainty index declined to 17.9 after nearing a one-year high in March. Labor market indicators were largely stable. Employment remained flat, but firms reported slightly longer workweeks, with the hours worked index rising to 4 from 0.9. Wage pressures showed little movement, as both the wages and benefits index were unchanged. Price pressures intensified, the finished goods price index surged to 27.6, its highest level since July 2022, while the raw materials price index climbed 4.3 points to 37. Looking ahead, expectations of general business activity rose 4 points to 14.1, as firms expect an increase in manufacturing activity over the next six months.
