From Deseret News archives:

Utah economy humming

Index shows upturns in almost all sectors

Published: Tuesday, July 4, 2006 9:42 a.m. MDT
 |  E-MAIL | PRINT | FONT + - 
Interest rate hikes and high gas prices are finally showing their teeth, nibbling into the regional and national economies — except in Utah, where the state's business leaders and supply managers are reporting brisk economic activity.

The Mountain States Business Conditions Index, released Monday, dipped to 65.4 in June from 65.8 the month before. The report, prepared by Creighton University in Omaha, Neb., is based on a monthly survey of local supply managers and business leaders in Utah, Wyoming and Colorado.

The index ranges from zero to 100, with a figure over 50 indicating an expansionary economy over the next three to six months. It uses the same methodology as a national survey conducted by the Institute for Supply Management, a private research group that surveys purchasing and supply executives in more than 350 industrial companies nationwide.

The ISM's report, also released Monday, showed its manufacturing index at 53.8 in June, slightly below the 54.4 reading in May. It was the slowest growth reading since the gauge registered 53.5 last August.

Story continues below
The results reinforced the belief of many experts that the U.S. economy has started to slow as higher interest rates have reduced demand for housing while rising fuel prices have put a crimp in consumer spending. As a result, analysts expect that the Federal Reserve, which last Thursday raised short-term interest rates for the 17th consecutive time, may soon be able to take a pause.

"If other June data also paint a picture of moderation . . . ahead of the August Federal Open Market Committee meeting, the Fed may want to pause to see whether the slowdown is temporary or not," Bear Stearns economist John Ryding said in a research note. "However, inflation readings remain elevated, and we still see the Fed raising the funds rate to 5.5 percent at some point in the third quarter."

Utah's index jumped to 68.3 in June from May's 61.6.

"Upturns in economic activity were reported for almost all sectors of the Utah economy," Ernie Goss, Creighton University economics professor, wrote in the report. "Due to expanding business conditions, truck-transportation firms recorded very strong numbers for the month. Utah food processors were the only industry to report weak conditions for the month."

The overall numbers for the three-state region were subdued.

Comments

You can be the first to comment on this story.

previousnext

Latest comments

Couldn't agree more! Having a local buying 49% is fantastic! Go RSL!

Celtics crush Jazz

No chance. Fesenko and Koufus could boost stagnant game but Sloan being...

Celtics crush Jazz

We really are a lottery team, aren't we?

Audit calls for end to 'double dipping'

Double Dipping is good for the one who is double dipping.

U. wants home-court edge

Honestly guys, if you think it is the layout of the spectrum that creates the...

What others say about the Utes

I would suggest you tone down your remarks and ethusiasm. You will probaly...

Look even futher at how ineffective 911 is after you call. Why does each...

Lou Dobbs resigns from CNN

Well, he'll probably go and join the "fair and balanced" NOT! station as he...

The legislature should go case by case on this issue. If a suitable...

UNC is the only place for a player like Ohai. That's like asking a football...

Advertisements
Advertisement