Summary Box: Factory outlook bright for 2011

MANUFACTURING REBOUNDS: Factories boosted output and booked more orders in December, a trade group said Monday. The Institute for Supply Management's index of manufacturing activity rose to 57 last month. Any reading above 50 indicates growth.

HIGHER DEMAND: December's reading is a seven-month high and represents the 17th straight month of growth. Businesses are investing more in equipment and software, and consumers are buying more electronics, computers and autos.

MOMENTUM IN PLACE: More growth is likely this year, economists said, fueled by tax cuts for consumers and businesses.