Global manufacturing PMIs show expansion amid automotive industry shifts

Global manufacturing sectors showed continued expansion in September. The Eurozone manufacturing PMI rose to 52.9, with production and new orders increasing at their fastest rate in 4.5 years. In the United States, the manufacturing PMI reached 55.9, marking fourteen consecutive months of expansion. China's manufacturing PMI also increased to 52.1, representing ten straight months of growth driven by new orders and safety stock building.

The automotive sector is undergoing significant shifts. BMW has announced a restructuring plan focused on AI and management changes to improve margins, while BYD reported a 17% year-over-year increase in September sales due to strong exports. Conversely, Ford reported wholesale impacts due to supplier disruptions affecting truck plants in Michigan and Kansas City. General Motors has reduced Chevrolet Bolt EV production by approximately 75% as federal EV support decreases, and reported a 5.5% year-over-year decline in third-quarter US sales amid high gasoline prices.