Final answer:
The stock price index and contracts and orders for non-defense capital goods are leading economic indicators.
Step-by-step explanation:
The stock price index and contracts and orders for non-defense capital goods are leading economic indicators.
Leading indicators are key statistics that attempt to predict the future direction of the economy. They provide valuable insights into where the economy is heading. In this case, the stock price index and contracts and orders for non-defense capital goods can help us anticipate future economic trends.
For example, if the stock price index is consistently rising, it suggests that investors have a positive outlook on the economy. Similarly, an increase in contracts and orders for non-defense capital goods indicates that businesses are investing in expansion and growth.