"Architecture Indexes and Homebuilder ETF: Has A Turning Point in Construction Arrived?" (XHB; FLM; PKB; SLX; JJC)

 FLM; and PKB are construction ETF's that are broader in scope that the homebuilder ETF (XHB). SLC is a steel ETF with a focus on the iron miners while JJC is a copper futures ETN. I don't know if the SEC has approved GlobalX's cement ETF yet.

From Carpe Diem:

February 22, 2012 – "On the heels of consecutive months of strengthening business conditions, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) has now reached positive territory three months in a row (see red line in chart above). As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. 

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the January ABI score was 50.9, following a mark of 51.0 in December. This score reflects a slight increase in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 61.2, down just a notch from a reading of 61.5 the previous month (see blue line)."...MORE