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AI Investment Boosts U.S. Capital Goods Orders Amid Declines

2/19/2026

50 12 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In December, new orders for U.S.-manufactured capital goods rose more than expected, due to an AI investment boom.
Non-defense capital goods orders increased by 0.6%, and shipments jumped 0.9%.
Durable goods orders declined 1.4% due to a drop in non-defense aircraft orders.
Factory production rose 0.6% in January, the largest gain since February 2025, and the economy is projected to grow at 3% annualized in the fourth quarter.

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Story summary

In December, new orders for U.S.-manufactured capital goods rose more than expected, due to an AI investment boom.
Non-defense capital goods orders increased by 0.6%, and shipments jumped 0.9%.
Durable goods orders declined 1.4% due to a drop in non-defense aircraft orders.
Factory production rose 0.6% in January, the largest gain since February 2025, and the economy is projected to grow at 3% annualized in the fourth quarter.