July 25, 2009

This is the first of a new monthly feature compiling the latest economic indicators to provide a more holistic view of the state of the economy.

The long climb to economic recovery may be beginning as a variety of economic indicators posted more positive results in May and June.While not all of the indicators posted positive results, many of those remaining negative declined at a slower rate. Though the outlook for recovery is still uncertain, many economists view these shifts as signs that the U.S. economy is heading into recovery phase with growth possible in 2010.

With the current recession in its nineteenth month, it is already longer and more widespread than the recessions in 1990-1991 and 2000-2001, according to Nouriel Roubini of the RGE Monitor, an economic analysis …

May 2009 wholesale revenues were $311.3 billion, up 0.2 percent from the revised April level, but down 19.9 percent from the May 2008 level. The April preliminary estimate was revised upward $1.4 billion or 0.4 percent. May sales of durable goods were down 0.2 percent from last month and were down 23 percent from a year ago. Sales of metals and minerals, except petroleum were down 8.1 percent for last month, while motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts and supplies were up 4.4 percent. Sales of nondurable goods were up 0.5 percent from last month, but were down 17.2 percent from last year. Sales of petroleum and petroleum products were up 4.6 percent from last month and sales of drugs and druggists’ sundries were up 1.4 percent.
Inventories
Total inventories were $402.2 …

These select product groups provide a snapshot of inflation trends based on the Producer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Second quarter 2009 is compared with second quarter 2008, second quarter 2009 with first quarter 2009.

The product groups in this report:

Abrasives
Adhesives & Sealants
Cutting Tools & Accessories
Hand & Edge Tools
Fasteners
Power-Driven Hand Tools
Ball & Roller Bearings
Mechanical Power Transmission Equipment
Valves, Except Fluid Power
Pumps, Compressors & Equipment
Electrical Machinery/Equipment
Industrial Material Handling Equipment
Industrial Gases
Welding Machinery/Equipment
Fluid Power Equipment
Plumbing Fixtures & Fittings
Hardware
Sanitary Paper Products
Plastic Resins & …

This table highlights key financial metrics and trading multiples for 28 publicly traded distributors in the industrial and building products industries up to June 30, 2009. Download this data below. Also find graphic illustrating median EBIDTA multiples for the same distribution companies.

These materials, prepared by Robert W. Baird & Co. for MDM, are for informational purposes …