According to Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, The July Creighton University Mid-America Business Conditions Index fell last month to a solid level that continues to point to positive, but slower, growth for the next three to six months.
Goss says the report shows business confidence rose to a healthy level. He says looking forward six months, economic optimism climbed to a strong 63.9 from June’s 59.8.
Goss explains things weren’t quite as positive regarding trade.
"And we asked about trade restrictions and almost 1/3 support continuation but that means almost 2/3’s don’t support continuation of these restrictions. Approximately 46.8 report negative impact on their buying abroad. 46.8. That’s a lot higher than you would expect.”
The Business Conditions Index, which ranges between 0 and 100, declined to 57.0 from June’s 61.8 and May’s 67.3.
This is the 20th straight month the index has remained above growth neutral 50.0, but the second straight month that the index has fallen.