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OMAHA — Rural bankers in 10 Midwest and plains states are more optimistic about the regional economy, but a new survey released Friday suggests business remains weak in many areas.
The overall Rural Mainstreet economic index remained in negative territory below 50 in October but rose to 48.4 from September’s 47.6. Any score below 50 suggests the economy will contract over the next six months.
The hiring index remained at a weak 46 in October, and many areas continue to lose jobs.
But the report’s confidence index, which reflects bankers’ expectations for the economy six months out, improved in October to 57.3 from 54.9 in September and 46.0 in August. The Associated Press
