Published October 1, 2014 9:50am EDT | Updated January 8, 2015 2:36pm EST

Final U.S. Markit Manufacturing Index Totals 57.5 In September

The final Markit reading of U.S. manufacturing conditions in September fell slightly to 57.5 from a preliminary 57.9 reading. Still, the index is just a hair below the highest level in more than four years. Readings over 50 indicate growth. In September manufacturers increased employment by the fastest rate in several years. Orders were also very strong. The index touched a 52-month high of 57.9 in August.