USD Core Durable Goods Orders m/m, Jan 28, 2026

Factories Buzzing? US Core Durable Goods Orders Surge, Hinting at a Stronger Economy

The latest economic snapshot from the US, released on January 28, 2026, shows manufacturers receiving a significantly stronger-than-expected wave of new orders for long-lasting goods (excluding transportation). This is crucial data, as it offers a vital clue about the health of American industry and what it might mean for your wallet.

On January 28, 2026, the USD Core Durable Goods Orders m/m report landed with a positive surprise. The numbers revealed that these essential manufacturer orders grew by a robust 0.5%. This comfortably beat both the 0.3% forecast by economists and the sluggish 0.2% seen in the previous period. This upward trend, especially when it outpaces expectations, is generally seen as good news for the US dollar.

What Exactly Are "Core Durable Goods Orders"?

Let's break down this economic jargon. "Durable goods" are items that are built to last, like appliances, machinery, and furniture. When we talk about "orders," we're looking at new purchase orders placed with manufacturers. The "Core" part is important: it means we're excluding the highly volatile transportation sector, which includes things like airplanes. Why? Because aircraft orders can swing wildly month-to-month, making it hard to see the underlying health of broader manufacturing.

Think of Core Durable Goods Orders m/m as a report card for how much American factories are being asked to produce for things that aren't planes or cars. A rising number like the 0.5% on January 28, 2026, indicates that businesses across various sectors are investing in new equipment and materials, signaling confidence in future demand. This is a crucial "leading indicator" – meaning it often points to future economic activity.

Why Should You Care About Manufacturer Orders?

This isn't just abstract economic news. The health of our manufacturing sector has a ripple effect that touches everyday Americans. When manufacturers receive more orders, they typically ramp up production. This increased activity can lead to:

  • Job Creation: More production often means hiring more workers. This is good news for job seekers and can contribute to higher wages for existing employees.
  • Economic Growth: A strong manufacturing sector fuels overall economic expansion, which can lead to a healthier stock market and increased investment.
  • Potential Price Stability: While not a direct effect, a productive economy can help keep a lid on rising prices by ensuring a steady supply of goods.

The USD Core Durable Goods Orders m/m data released on January 28, 2026, showing a 0.5% increase, suggests a positive momentum. It's a clear step up from the 0.2% in the prior month. This suggests that businesses are feeling more optimistic about the economic outlook and are willing to commit to future production. This positive surprise could make the US dollar more attractive to international investors, potentially strengthening its value against other currencies.

What Traders and Investors Are Watching

For financial markets, this USD Core Durable Goods Orders m/m report Jan 28, 2026 is a significant data point. Traders and investors watch these numbers closely for several reasons:

  • Economic Health Barometer: It provides a tangible measure of business investment and future production plans.
  • Inflationary Pressures: Strong demand for goods can sometimes signal rising inflationary pressures, which central banks monitor closely when setting interest rates.
  • Currency Strength: As mentioned, a stronger-than-expected report often boosts confidence in the US economy, leading to a stronger US dollar. This can make imports cheaper for Americans but exports more expensive for foreign buyers.

It's worth noting that this data is subject to revisions. The Census Bureau typically revises these figures later, and orders for aircraft can cause significant distortions. That's why focusing on the "core" number, which excludes transportation, is often considered a more reliable gauge of the underlying trend.

A Glimpse into the Future

The strong Core Durable Goods Orders m/m figure from January 28, 2026, paints a picture of an economy where businesses are actively planning for growth. This is a positive sign for job prospects and overall economic stability. While the US government shutdown caused a delay in this report's release, the data itself delivers a welcome jolt of optimism.

As we look ahead to the next release on February 26, 2026, market watchers will be keen to see if this trend continues. For everyday Americans, this report serves as an important reminder of how the gears of industry are turning, influencing everything from job opportunities to the value of your savings.


Key Takeaways:

  • Headline Numbers: Core Durable Goods Orders m/m for the US saw a strong 0.5% increase on January 28, 2026, beating expectations.
  • What it Means: This indicates a healthy rise in new orders for long-lasting manufactured goods (excluding transportation), suggesting increased business investment and confidence.
  • Impact on You: Potential for job growth, economic expansion, and a stronger US dollar.
  • Leading Indicator: This data often signals future trends in production and economic activity.
  • Next Release: Keep an eye on the February 26, 2026 report for continued trends.