Economy on 23-month ride

National News

November 1, 2018 - 11:24 AM

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The economy expanded in nine Midwestern and Plains states last month despite mounting concerns about tariffs and trade skirmishes, according to a report released today.

The Mid-America Business Conditions Index slumped to 54.9 in October, from 57.5 in September, the report said. The October reading was the lowest since January 2017, but it also was the 23rd month in a row that the index has remained above growth neutral 50.0.

“The regional economy continues to expand at a healthy pace,” said Creighton University economist Ernie Goss, who oversees the survey. “However, as in recent months, shortages of skilled workers remain an impediment to even stronger growth. Furthermore, supply managers are reporting mounting negative impacts from tariffs and trade skirmishes,” he said.

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