United States Econcomy

The nation's manufacturing sector slowed to a virtual standstill in November as an economic recovery appeared to run out of steam, a group of purchasing executives said Monday. The National Assn. of Purchasing Management said its monthly index fell to 50.1% in November from 53.5% in October. A reading above 50% shows that the manufacturing sector is expanding, while a reading below that level indicates that the sector is declining.

The nation's manufacturing sector slowed to a virtual standstill in November as an economic recovery appeared to run out of steam, a group of purchasing executives said Monday. The National Assn. of Purchasing Management said its monthly index fell to 50.1% in November from 53.5% in October. A reading above 50% shows that the manufacturing sector is expanding, while a reading below that level indicates that the sector is declining.