Senior Market Research Analyst, Gardner Intelligence The GBI edged down slightly in September to 48.5, following a 48.9 reading in August. Over the past four months, the index has remained relatively stable, hovering between 48 and 49. Supplier deliveries, production, and backlog all improved in September, and every component except exports is performing better than in September 2024. Average spending intentions have continued to decline, extending the downward trend observed since December 2024.