The Nebraska economy will continue to grow through the third quarter of 2018, according to the most recent leading economic indicator report from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

The indicator, a composite of economic factors that predict economic growth six months into the future, rose by 1.03 percent in February 2018.

“Solid business confidence and a strong labor market contributed to the rise in the leading indicator,” said economist Eric Thompson, director of the Bureau of Business Research at the university.

Craig Chandler | University Communication

Eric Thompson (center) is a professor of economics and director of the Bureau of Business Research.

In a positive sign for the labor market, initial claims for unemployment insurance fell in Nebraska on a seasonally-adjusted basis. Respondents to the February Survey of Nebraska Business also reported plans to expand sales and employment over the next six months.

Most components of the leading indicator improved during the month. However, the value of the U.S. dollar increased slightly during February.

“A rising U.S. dollar creates more competitive pressure for Nebraska exporters, including in manufacturing and agriculture,” Thompson said.

The leading economic indicator report is produced monthly by faculty and students in the Bureau of Business Research in Nebraska’s College of Business. The full report and a technical report describing the indicators are available at the Bureau of Business Research website.