Midwest Economy Features

Information about the Seventh Federal Reserve District states—Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan and Wisconsin. Economic indicators, articles on Midwest issues, and information about conferences and projects.

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Bill Testa on the Midwest Economy

Research Vice President Bill Testa and special guest commentators offer unique perspectives on the Midwest economy through this blog. In his lastest posting, Bill talks about the importance that tall buildings have played in Chicago's growth.

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Farmland Values Still Down from Last Year

According to David Oppedahl in the latest AgLetter, farmland values in Seventh District were four percent lower in the third quarter of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. However, the value of "good" agricultural land for the District increased two percent in the third quarter of 2009 compared with the second quarter of 2009.

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The 2009 Health Care Leader Forum

In this edition of the Chicago Fed Letter, Sam Kahan looks at employers' role in improving health care cost, quality and accessibility. He also summarizes a recent forum held at the Chicago Fed's Detroit Branch on October 8 and 9, 2009.

Michigan Retailers' Holiday Forecast Mixed

The Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of the Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, resulted in a seasonally adjusted performance index of 42.5 for September, down from 41.2 in June and 35.2 in May. "July was the best month for Michigan retailers since a year ago July," said MRA President and CEO James P. Hallan. "For the third consecutive month, more retailers reported better year-to-year sales. Their outlook also rose, for the second month in a row."

Midwest Manufacturing Output Increased in September

The Chicago Fed Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) increased 1.0% in September, to a seasonally adjusted level of 82.3 (2002 = 100).

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Raising Automotive Fuel Efficiency

In a recent Chicago Fed Letter, Thomas H. Klier and a co-author examine the challenges of meeting the stricter fuel economy standards for new vehicles.(PDF,210KB)

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U.S. Economy to Turn the Corner in 2010

In a recent special Chicago Fed Letter, William A. Strauss and Emily A. Engel summarize the recent Auto Outlook Symposium held at the Detroit Branch. They report the economic forecasts of the speakers: Solid growth expected in 2010, with some concerns about the job market but inflation expected to be contained.(PDF,129KB)

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Should the Federal Government Bail Out the States?

In a recent Chicago Fed Letter, Rick Mattoon takes a look at the challenges for state governments in balancing their budgets. He considers what role the federal government can play, in comparison to their effors in past recessions. (PDF,56KB)

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August Employment for States Released

Check out our data page to see the most recent employment and unemployment numbers. Most recently released are the employment numbers for August. You can check out our interactive charts to what's happening in the U.S. and in the states. Or, you can take a look at your industry and compare it to others.

Last updated: November 19, 2009