Industrial production climbs more than expected in December.

The Federal Reserve reported industrial production rose 0.4 percent in December, and output was 2.0 percent higher than a year earlier.

Industrial production grew in December, according to a Federal Reserve report released on Friday. The Fed said overall industrial production rose 0.4 percent for the month. Economists had expected a smaller increase of about 0.1 percent, and November's estimate was revised up to 0.4 percent from 0.2 percent. The report also showed industrial output was 2.0 percent higher than a year earlier. Key figures: - Industrial production rose 0.4 percent in December. - November's estimate was revised to 0.4 percent from 0.2 percent. - Industrial output was 2.0 percent higher than a year earlier. - Utilities output surged 2.6 percent in November, likely reflecting harsh winter weather. - Overall manufacturing rose 0.2 percent in December and is up 2.0 percent year-over-year; consumer goods manufacturing grew 0.7 percent. - Business equipment manufacturing climbed 0.8 percent and is up 10.1 percent from a year earlier, while mining fell 0.7 percent and is up 1.7 percent from a year ago. Summary: The Federal Reserve's report indicates industrial activity was stronger than analysts expected for December, with notable gains in utilities and business equipment. Undetermined at this time.