Real U.S. economic output increased at an annualized rate of 3.4% in the third quarter of 2026, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The rate of economic growth in the third quarter exceeded the previous quarter, which grew 2.2% after revisions.
In a widely expected move, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at a target range of 3.75% to 4.00%. While rates held steady, the two dissenting votes signal that the hawks may prevail over the next several meetings.
Shipments of cutting tools totaled $278.6 million in August 2026, a decrease of 0.8% from the $280.9 million reported in July 2026 but up 32.2% from August 2025. Year-to-date shipments totaled $2.03 billion, up 22.4% from the same period in 2025.
The Importance of Digital Investment, Automation's Foundational Role, and More.
The overall message from MTForecast 2026 was clear: Manufacturing remains positioned for growth, and many companies continue to invest accordingly.
Total U.S. industrial production increased in September 2026 to the highest level since December 2018. Capacity utilization is at its highest level since November 2018.
American industrialist Henry Ford once wrote, “The motor enabled machinery to be arranged according to the sequence of work, and that alone has probably doubled the efficiency of industry.”
New orders of metalworking machinery, measured by the U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders Report, totaled $732.9 million in August 2026.
Making smarter decisions about investments, hiring, production planning, and growth – and focusing on what measures create lasting success in manufacturing.
$500 Million-Plus in Manufacturing Technology Orders; the Federal Reserve Rate Hike; and More.
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