The Conference Board Leading Economic Index for the U.S. Declined Slightly in August
The Conference Board's Leading Economic Index (LEI) for the United States edged down by 0.1% in August 2026 to a reading of 99.5, following an increase of 0.2% in July. This marks the first monthly decline since March and results in a six-month growth rate of -0.1%, indicating slower economic momentum ahead. The index is influenced by components such as consumer expectations and building permits, both of which declined during the month. In contrast to the LEI's slight downturn, the Coincident Economic Index (CEI) rose 0.1% in August after two consecutive months of gains, with a six-month growth rate of +0.4%. The CEI reflects current economic conditions and is closely tied to real GDP performance. Meanwhile, the Lagging Economic Index increased by 0.2%, showing stronger long-term trends. The Conference Board forecasts U.S. real GDP at a 1.9% annualized pace in 2026 but has revised its outlook for 2027 downward from 1.9% to 1.8%. The next LEI update is scheduled for October 22, 2026.
Topics: CEI economic indicators GDP forecast LAG LEI