Nebraska’s leading economic indicator rose again during March, according to the most recent report from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
The leading indicator rose 1.49%, marking the sixth-consecutive monthly increase.
“The improving indicator suggests that the economic recovery will be robust in Nebraska this year,” said economist Eric Thompson, director of the Bureau of Business Research at the university.
Strong business expectations and a faster recovery in travel were primary reasons for the improving indicator.
There was a sharp increase in airline passenger counts in Nebraska during March, Thompson said, while respondents to the monthly Survey of Nebraska Business reported plans to increase sales and employment.
While the pace of airport activity accelerated, airline passenger counts remain far below pre-pandemic levels.
Among declining factors, there was another increase in the value of the U.S. dollar in March. A higher-value dollar is challenging for agricultural producers, manufacturers and other Nebraska businesses that compete in international markets.
Read the full report and a technical report describing the indicators.
