The overall economy grew for the 22nd straight time, while the manufacturing sector expanded for the 20th time, the Institute for Supply Management reported Friday.
The ISM index dipped to 61.2 in March from 61.4 in February, according to the institute’s monthly report on business,.
Economists predicted the index would fall to 61.0.
An index reading above 50 suggests expansion.
The closely watched prices paid index grew to 85.0 from 82.0. The employment index was 63.0, down from 64.5 in February.
