Gauge of US economy's health rose 0.5 per cent in February, biggest gain in 3 months

WASHINGTON - A measure of the U.S. economy's health rose in February by the largest amount in three months, suggesting growth should rebound following a severe winter.

The Conference Board says its index of leading indicators increased 0.5 per cent in February following a slight 0.1 per cent rise in January and a 0.1 per cent decline in December. It was the best showing since a 0.9 per cent gain in November.

Conference Board economists say the better-than-expected increase indicates any weather-related problems the economy is experiencing now will be short-lived and the economy will be poised for better growth in the second half of this year.