An index value above 50 shows expansion in the manufacturing sector, while a value under 50 signals contraction. 

Among the sub-indices that comprise the PMI, the new orders index rose slightly and remained over the 50 threshold.   

The production volume index was lower but still showed expansion.   

The employment index also dropped, but still showed more jobs being added to the economy.   

Delivery times were longer in December. Purchased inventories climbed for the 12th month in a row.