Mixed news this week as factory orders continue to increase with one of the longest consecutive run of monthly increases since 1992.  However, the ISM Purchasing Managers Index dropped below 50 to 49 yesterday based on surveys among purchasing managers.  A reading below 50 would indicate the potential of a decline in future of new orders.  No doubt, business leaders are taking notice of rising interest rates and prices and implementing precautions should the US economy slow faster than projected.