News Summary: Survey shows economy to stay weak

ECONOMY WEAK: The Conference Board's index of leading economic indicators edged down 0.1 percent in August, the second decline in the past three months.

LESS CONFIDENCE, FEWER HOURS: The report noted that manufacturing orders, consumer confidence and average weekly manufacturing hours all slipped.

OUTLOOK: The index is intended to anticipate economic conditions three to six months out. The decline suggests growth will likely stay sluggish in the second half of the year.