The WSU Current Conditions Index increased 1.6 percent from December through April, with the largest percentage increase of 1.1 percent occurring from January to February. Four of the six index indicators increased from March to April. Seasonally adjusted home sales increased 24.4 percent, seasonally adjusted outbound passengers at Wichita’s Mid-Continent Airport increased 5.6 percent, and Wichita’s seasonally adjusted hotel occupancy rate increased 2.1 percentage points. In addition, the unemployment rate decreased 0.1 percentage point.
Four consecutive months of growth in the index are very encouraging. However, with that growth following months of decline, this new trend feels very tentative. Hopefully, these economic improvements will be sustainable.
To read the April Current Conditions Index report in its entirety, click here.