Big business to the rescue - for now

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Corporate America is keeping the economy afloat. But some economists worry that it can't last.

The government reported a surprising 0.8% increase in durable goods orders for June this morning. Economists were expecting orders to fall 0.3% from May levels, according to Briefing.com.

This report is important since it shines a light on the health of the manufacturing sector. Durable goods are defined as products that have a long shelf-life - three years or more - and includes stuff like cars, aircraft, computers and communications equipment.