U.S. service industry expands at a modest pace as activity cools

The U.S. service sector expanded only modestly in April, restrained by the weakest pace of business activity in nearly three years.

The Institute for Supply Management’s overall gauge of services edged up to 51.9 last month from 51.2 in March, according to data out Wednesday. Readings above 50 indicate growth. A measure of prices paid held close to the lowest level since 2020.

The business activity index fell 3.4 points to 52, still indicating growth but the slowest pace since May 2020. The third-straight decline in the gauge that parallels the ISM factory output index suggests softer demand for services.

Combined with the latest ISM report showing manufacturing contracted for a sixth month, the services data underscore an economy struggling for momentum amid higher interest rates and still-elevated inflation.

One bright spot in the services report was a pickup in a measure of new orders, which climbed nearly 4 points to 56.1 and suggested demand continues to grow, albeit slowly.

Fourteen industries reported growth in April, led by entertainment and recreation, other services, real estate, and accommodation and food services. Three industries reported a decrease.

“The majority of respondents are mostly positive about business conditions; however, some respondents are wary of potential head winds associated with inflation and an economic slowdown,” Anthony Nieves, chair of the ISM Services Business Survey Committee, said in a statement.

While the ISM’s index of prices paid for inputs ticked up in April, it remained near the lowest level since July 2020. At 59.6, the index indicates inflationary pressures are easing.

The report also showed the pace of hiring at service providers moderated further in April. The group’s employment gauge slipped to 50.8, suggesting modest increases in head count.

The government’s monthly jobs report on Friday is forecast to show employers scaled back hiring. Economists also see the unemployment rate ticking up slightly from historically-low levels.

A measure of inventories at service providers slipped back below 50, indicating declines. A separate gauge showed respondents viewed their stockpiles as being modestly lean. Both measures suggest services are making progress on any inventory overhang.