The Conference Board's US Leading Economic Index for June fell 0.2 percent from the previous month, dropping into negative territory for the first time since March after a 0.1 percent gain in May, and missing expectations. The yield spread contributed a positive 0.10, as it did the month before, but could not offset weakness in consumer expectations and building permits. Meanwhile, six-month and twelve-month growth rates remained stable, and the Conference Board noted strong business investment in AI-related equipment, raising its 2026 GDP growth forecast to 1.9 percent annualized from 1.8 percent. The Coincident Index rose to 114.6 from 114.4 in May, with first-half growth accelerating to 0.4 percent from 0.3 percent in the prior six months, as all components including employment and personal income made positive contributions. These results point to continued moderate growth rather than imminent recession risk, and are seen supporting further rate hikes this year and a stronger dollar.