For only the third time since July 2024, the overall Mid-American PMI Business Conditions Index, climbed above growth neutral to 51.1 in January.

• For a fourth straight month, the wholesale price inflation gauge rose but continues to indicate modest inflation.
• Due to modest inflationary pressures, Goss expects the Federal Reserve to hold on any interest rate change at its next meeting on March 18-19.
• After 12 straight months of job losses, the region’s employment gauge climbed above growth neutral.
• In anticipation of higher costs from tariff implementation, firms increased their inventory levels in January and increased imports to a record high.
• According to the latest U.S. International Trade Administration data, the regional economy expanded 2024 year-to-date manufacturing exports by $797.2 million from the same period in 2023 for a 0.9% gain.
• Mexico was the top 2024 destination for regional agriculture and livestock exports.