Nebraska’s Leading Economic Indicator fell slightly, by 0.10 percent in October, marking the second consecutive monthly decline.
“The decline in the Leading Economic Indicator – Nebraska is primarily the result of a sharp increase in the value of the U.S. dollar during October,” said University of Nebraska-Lincoln economist Eric Thompson, director of the Bureau of Business Research. “A rising dollar puts pressure on exporters in agriculture and manufacturing.”
Business expectations were one key bright spot for the Nebraska economy. Respondents to the October
Survey of Nebraska Business reported expectations for solid growth in both sales and employment over the next six months. Manufacturing hours also rose modestly during October.
Overall, businesses remain positive about the future but economic statistics paint a picture of slowing economic growth. According to Thompson, “this suggests economic growth will slow during the first four months of 2015. The economy will continue to grow but at a slower pace.”
November Leading Economic Indicator - Nebraska Report
Published: November 21, 2014