A monthly survey of economic conditions in nine Midwest and Plains states is down for the fifth time in six months.
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss compiles the survey. December’s business conditions index, an indicator of overall economic health, was up slightly from November to 49.5. However, that remains below 50, which indicates economic growth over the next three to six months.
Goss says it’s a reflection of economic troubles at the national level, and he believes the economy will grow at a slower pace in the first half of 2013, both regionally and nationally.
He says trade, export, and manufacturing numbers were all down in December compared to one year ago, an indicator that an economic slowdown in Europe has reached markets in the nine-state region.
The nine-state region includes Iowa and Nebraska.
