Index Shows Robust Midwest Economic Growth in March
Led by gains in the manufacturing sector, the Midwest Economy Index (MEI) increased to +0.82 in March from +0.61 in February. March marked the highest level of the index since March 1995 and the fifth consecutive month that Midwest economic growth was above its historic trend. In addition, Midwest growth continued to outperform its historical deviation with respect to national growth, but the relative MEI decreased to +0.16 in March from +0.27 in February.