US Orders for Business Equipment Rebound, Defying High Rates

  • Bookings for core capital goods rose 0.3% in April after drop
  • Durable goods orders climbed broadly, including cars, machines

The report suggests businesses remain committed to making long-term investments despite high borrowing costs and elevated input prices.

Photographer: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
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Orders placed with US factories for business equipment rose by more than forecast in April, indicating firms are still focused on making long-term investments despite an uncertain outlook and high borrowing costs.

The value of core capital goods orders, a proxy for investment in equipment excluding aircraft and military hardware, increased 0.3% last month after falling slightly in March, Commerce Department figures showed Friday. The data aren’t adjusted for inflation.