FBI Probing Release of Index, University Says

The University of Michigan said the FBI and college officials were investigating “the unauthorized access and public release” of its February consumer sentiment report.

The index was published by the Market News International news service before being released to subscribers of the index Feb. 13, said Richard Curtin, director of the university’s Institute for Social Research, which compiles the index. Market News Managing Editor Tony Mace could not be reached for comment.

The tax-supported university’s sponsorship of the index, which can move stock and bond markets, has drawn criticism because it is the only U.S. economic indicator that is sold to customers before the public sees it.