Nebraska Economic Indicator: Moderate Growth Expected in the Next Six Months

A University of Nebraska economic indicator suggests moderate growth for the state six months from now. December’s survey result increased by 0.73% from the previous month.

Eric Thompson leads the UNL survey, which looks at six economic factors for the future. He said the state’s labor market is strong and businesses are planning for growth.

“Businesses are quite confident,” Thompson said. “We survey them every month, 500 Nebraska businesses, and they reported to us, overall, they are planning to raise sales and employment over the next six months. In terms of the labor market, initial claims for unemployment insurance were down again during December.”

High demand from consumers explains why businesses are optimistic. Thompson said supply shortages aren’t going to end, but experts believe the stress will ease in the coming months.

Thompson said the Federal Reserve hiking interest rates and the rising value of the dollar overseas are slightly concerning going forward because it could hurt export efforts.