Two new government reports appear to show that American businesses have growing confidence that the U.S. economic recovery will continue.
U.S. businesses, which have been keeping inventories lean, boosted their stockpiles of unsold goods in September for the first time in six months.
The Commerce Department reported a 0.3 percent boost in inventories.
A second new government report, which surveyed businesses in the key New York state area, showed increased orders to manufacturers in November.
Experts say businesses are slowly increasing spending and creating jobs, steps that are needed for sustained economic growth.