Minnesota

Minnesota:  The April Minnesota Business Conditions Index was above growth neutral marking the 32nd consecutive month that the state’s leading economic indicator was above growth neutral.  The index, based on a survey of supply managers in the state, climbed to 61.0 from March’s 56.7. Components of the index from the April were new orders at 71.1, production or sales at 69.5, delivery lead time at 55.2, inventories at 49.1, and employment at 60.2. “As in past months, durable goods manufacturers, such as metal producers, are growing briskly even as nondurable producers detail no gains.  In addition to upturns in hiring, manufacturers and non-manufacturers are increasing the hours that current employees are working,” said Goss.