Productivity

Definition: Productivity shows how efficiently a workforce is producing goods and services.

Description: The Productivity report shows changes in production volume relative to labour costs and can be an early indicator of inflation. The higher the level of production relative to labour costs, the higher the level of productivity. This index is followed closely by investors, but can be misleading. Lay-offs may lead to increased productivity as measured per worker. Strikes can also influence productivity figures.

Influence: An increase in productivity is generally a positive sign for the US economy, strengthening the US dollar.

Market Impact: Medium

Released: Measures are regularly revised as more complete information becomes available. The measures are first published within 40 days of the end of the reference period. Revised figures are published 30 days later. A second revision may then be published after an additional 60 days.

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics