The Empire State Manufacturing Index (ESMI) is a survey given out by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to manufacturing companies within the state of New York. The ESMI measures how optimistic or pessimistic these companies are about their current business conditions and future prospects. A high ESMI score means that these businesses are feeling good about things, while a low score means they're not as confident.The index was created in 2001, and since then it's been used to help policymakers make decisions about interest rates and economic stimulus programs. It's also been cited by economists as an important indicator of economic health. So if you're wondering whether or not the economy is doing well, take a look at the Empire State Manufacturing Index!