The Chicago Business Barometer fell 3.5 points to 55.3 in October 2026, below expectations of 56.1 but remaining in expansion for a second month. The decline largely reversed September’s increase. Supplier Deliveries dropped 10.3 points to their lowest since February, although remaining in expansion for a 21st consecutive month. Respondents reported mixed conditions, citing shorter but still slow delivery times and persistent delays from Asia. Production fell 5.2 points but remained in expansion, while New Orders edged down 0.6 points and stayed firmly positive. Order Backlogs declined 4.4 points, remaining in contraction for a fourth month. Employment jumped 10.3 points to its highest since April 2021, returning to expansion. Prices Paid rose 8.9 points to their highest since December 2021, reflecting higher costs for chemical- and petroleum-based inputs. Inventories edged up 4 points but remained in contraction.