U.S. Leading Economic Index Rises for Second Straight Month in May

The U.S. Leading Economic Index (LEI) increased by 0.2% in May, marking its second consecutive monthly rise after a 0.6% gain in April. This suggests a potential easing of immediate recession concerns, according to data released by The Conference Board on June 18, 2026. Despite the recent upturn, the LEI remains down 1.6% over the six-month period ending May 2026. The Conference Board's Senior Manager, Justyna Zabinska-La Monica, noted that while the current LEI trajectory suggests the economy is not headed for a recession, the growth outlook remains slow. The Coincident Economic Index (CEI), which reflects current economic activity, also rose by 0.1% in May, following a 0.2% increase in April. The Lagging Economic Index (LAI) advanced 0.2% in May, after a 0.3% gain in April.