The overall Mid-America Business Conditions Index climbed to 56.7, its highest level since July 2022.

• The March Business Confidence Index plummeted to its lowest level since September 2024 with supply managers voicing concerns over tariffs.
• As indicated by a participating supply manager, “Our downstream customers tell us that consumers have reduced the purchasing of big ticket items due to the turmoil at the federal level.”
• Another supply manager said they are, “Taking steps to mitigate tariff impact. Already implemented a surcharge to account for the 25% tariff on incoming steel.”
• For a sixth straight month, the wholesale price inflation gauge increased, indicating expanding inflationary pressures. Even so, Goss expects the Federal Reserve to hold off on any interest rate change at its next meetings on May 6-7.
• The March employment index soared to its highest level since July 2022.
• According to U.S. International Trade Administration (ITA) data, the regional economy began the year with manufacturing exports at $7.1 billion, essentially flat from the same period in 2024.