WSU Leading Index Gathers Strength

The WSU Leading Economic Indicators Index increased another 1.2 percent in January, bringing current growth to a 10-month duration. When comparing the 12 months ending in January to the previous 12 months, all of the Index indicators improved except the inflation-adjusted value of building permits in Wichita. Kansas initial unemployment claims dropped 33.3 percent, while the inflation-adjusted value of new orders for aircraft and parts in the United States and the Aerospace Stock Index both increased nearly 20 percent.  The gathering strength of this Index bodes well for the local economy as we move through 2011.