U.S. July services activity rises: ISM

WASHINGTON (MarketWatch)
U.S. services activity accelerated in July, according to data released Friday by the Institute for Supply Management
The ISM services index ticked higher to 52.6% from 52.1% in June, compared with analysts' expectations of 52%
Of key components, the business activity/production index rose 5.5 points, and the new orders component rose 1 point
Meanwhile the employment component fell 3 points, and is now contracting
Readings above 50% indicate expansion